Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Pronunciation: PAY-tent DUK-tus ar-teer-ee-OH-sus
A congenital heart defect where the ductus arteriosus fails to close after birth, creating an abnormal blood flow pattern.
Full Definition
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) occurs when the ductus arteriosus, a normal fetal blood vessel connecting the aorta and pulmonary artery, fails to close naturally after birth. This results in abnormal blood flow from the aorta to the pulmonary artery, potentially leading to increased workload on the left ventricle and pulmonary hypertension if left untreated. PDA is more common in premature infants and can often be treated with medication or minimally invasive procedures.
Usage
Usage note: Note 'patent' means 'open' in this context, not related to intellectual property. Often abbreviated as PDA.
In Context
- "The echocardiogram revealed a small Patent Ductus Arteriosus with left-to-right shunting." — Diagnostic imaging report
- "Patent Ductus Arteriosus closure was successfully performed using transcatheter coil embolization." — Procedural note