Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Treatment in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune

Overview

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart defect that is commonly seen in premature infants. It occurs when a vital fetal blood vessel, the ductus arteriosus, fails to close after birth. Normally, this vessel allows blood to bypass the lungs during fetal development, but it should close soon after birth. If it remains open, oxygen-rich blood from the aorta flows back into the lungs, increasing the workload of the heart and raising the risk of PDA complications such as pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, and frequent respiratory infections.

What is PDA?

The full form of PDA in medical terms is Patent Ductus Arteriosus. It is a heart condition in which the ductus arteriosus—a small vessel connecting the aorta and pulmonary artery—remains open after birth. This causes abnormal blood flow, forcing the heart to work harder and sending extra blood to the lungs.

PDA heart disease is more common in premature babies, particularly those born before 30 weeks of gestation, but can also affect full-term infants. Early detection and treatment are critical to avoid long-term complications.

Types of PDA

1. Silent PDA – Small openings without noticeable symptoms. Often detected during routine checks. Rarely causes problems but may increase infection risk
2. Small PDA – Slightly larger opening causing minimal extra blood flow. Usually it doesn't require urgent treatment.
3. Moderate PDA – Causes left-to-right shunting, increasing stress on the heart and lungs. Symptoms may include PDA symptoms like breathing difficulty and fatigue.
4. Large PDA – Significant shunting leading to left ventricular overload and pulmonary hypertension if untreated.
5. Eisenmenger PDA – Severe PDA with bidirectional blood flow due to elevated pulmonary pressures, requiring careful intervention.

Causes of PDA

PDA disease arises due to multiple factors:

• Premature Birth – Underdeveloped ductus arteriosus muscles make closure difficult.
• Genetic Factors – Mutations in TFAP2B, NOTCH1, or PITX2 genes may cause PDA.
• Maternal Health Conditions – Rubella infection, uncontrolled diabetes, or chronic low oxygen in the womb can affect duct closure.
• Medications During Pregnancy – Certain drugs, including ibuprofen, indomethacin, and some antidepressants, may increase PDA risk.

Risk Factors

• Low Birth Weight – Babies under 2,500 grams have a higher risk.
• Female Gender – PDA is more common in girls due to hormonal effects on blood vessels.
• Respiratory Issues – Conditions like neonatal RDS, persistent pulmonary hypertension, and hypoxia can prevent normal closure.
• Multiple Births – Twins or triplets are more likely to be premature, increasing PDA risk.
• Other Heart Defects – Cyanotic congenital heart diseases such as Tetralogy of Fallot can delay duct closure.

PDA Symptoms

Symptoms of PDA depend on its size:

• Breathing Problems – Extra blood in lungs leads to congestion, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
• Heart Murmur – A continuous “machine-like” murmur is typical.
• Slow Weight Gain – Extra cardiac workload burns calories, hindering growth.
• Fatigue and Lethargy – Reduced oxygen delivery causes tiredness.
• Frequent Respiratory Infections – Pulmonary edema increases infection risk.

Diagnosis

PDA diagnosis involves:

• Clinical Evaluation – Doctors check pulse, heart rate, and listen for murmurs.
• Echocardiography – Detects left-to-right shunting and pulmonary artery pressures.
• Chest X-ray – Identifies lung congestion or heart enlargement.
• Electrocardiography (ECG) – Detects heart enlargement or rhythm problems.
• Cardiac Catheterization – Measures pressures and confirms PDA when other tests are inconclusive.
• MRI & Pulse Oximetry – Quantifies shunts and evaluates oxygen saturation differences.

PDA Treatment

Treatment is tailored to each child and may include:

1. PDA Medication – NSAIDs like ibuprofen or indomethacin help close PDA by reducing prostaglandins. Acetaminophen may be used if NSAIDs are unsuitable.
2. Catheter-Based Closure – A minimally invasive procedure inserting a device or coil to seal the ductus arteriosus. It reduces recovery time, scarring, and post-procedure discomfort.
3. Patent Ductus Arteriosus Surgery – Surgical ligation is performed when catheter closure is not feasible, especially in premature or critically ill babies. A small chest incision is made, and the ductus is tied or clipped.

Prevention & Postnatal Care

While PDA cannot always be prevented, especially in premature infants, the following measures can reduce risk:

• Prenatal Care – Regular checkups, vaccinations, and a nutrient-rich diet.
• Manage Maternal Health – Control chronic conditions and avoid harmful medications.
• Postnatal Care – Proper oxygen therapy, fluid management, and early use of PDA medication in preterm babies.
• Genetic Counseling – For families with a history of congenital heart defects.

PDA Complications

If untreated, PDA can lead to:

• Heart failure
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Frequent lung infections
• Growth delays
• Increased risk of infective endocarditis

Conclusion

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart condition that, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications affecting a child’s heart and lungs. Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and timely intervention are essential for ensuring the best possible outcomes. Treatments for PDA range from medications to minimally invasive catheter-based procedures and advanced patent ductus arteriosus surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

At Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital, the Best Pediatric Hospital in Pimpri, Pune, our experienced pediatric cardiologists and best pediatricians in Pimpri-Chinchwad provide comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to each child’s unique needs. With state-of-the-art facilities and a child-friendly environment, we ensure safe and effective management of PDA, helping children lead healthy, active lives.

Find Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Care Near You

Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital, the Best Pediatric Hospital in Pimpri, Pune, provides advanced pediatric care for Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) in Pimpri-Chinchwad and nearby areas, including Hinjewadi, Wakad, Baner, Aundh, Pimple Saudagar, Bhosari, Ravet, Chinchwad Gaon, Tathawade, Nigdi, PCMC, Pimpri, Moshi, and Chakan. With expert pediatric cardiologists, best pediatricians in Pimpri-Chinchwad, and state-of-the-art facilities, we offer comprehensive PDA treatment, including medications, catheter-based closure, and patent ductus arteriosus surgery.