Patent ductus arterious (PDA) is a heart defect that is found days or weeks after a child is born. It is a persistent opening that occurs in between the two major blood vessels in the heart. The opening is called a ductus arteriosus, and it may normally close shortly after birth. Patent ductus arteriosus occurs when a ductus arteriosus does not resolve itself.
Symptoms of patent ductus arteriosus vary depending on the size of the defect and whether your baby was carried full term or is premature. A small patent ductus arterious may not cause any symptoms even until adulthood; however, a large patent ductus arterious may cause signs of heart failure after birth. A large patent ductus arterious in infants or during childhood may cause symptoms such as:
Symptoms of patent ductus arteriosus may appear to be other health conditions. It is essential that you seek medical attention for diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment depends entirely on your child's symptoms, age, how severe the condition is and your child's general health. Dr Dongo may recommend the following procedures to repair the defect:
A cardiothoracic surgeon is a specialist medical doctor who performs operations on the heart, lungs, esophagus, and other organs in the chest. Dr Lehlohonolo Dongo's Qualifications.
TEL : 011 458 2103 FAX : +27 (0) 10 007 2632
EMAIL : dr@cardiothoracic-surgeon.co.za