PDA
Also written as: PDA — Patent Ductus Arteriosus
A congenital heart defect where the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that bypasses the lungs during fetal development, fails to close after birth.
Full Definition
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart defect characterized by the persistence of the ductus arteriosus after birth. During fetal development, this blood vessel allows blood to bypass the lungs by connecting the pulmonary artery to the aorta. Normally, the ductus arteriosus closes within the first few days of life, but in PDA, it remains open (patent). This creates a left-to-right shunt, allowing oxygenated blood to flow from the aorta back to the pulmonary arteries and lungs. PDA is more common in premature infants and can lead to heart failure if large or left untreated. Treatment options include medication to promote closure or surgical intervention.
Usage
Usage note: In pediatric cardiology, PDA refers to patent ductus arteriosus, not personal digital assistant.
In Context
- "The echocardiogram confirmed a moderate-sized PDA with left-to-right shunting." — Cardiology consultation
- "Indomethacin was administered in an attempt to promote closure of the PDA in this preterm infant." — NICU treatment plan