How to cure patent ductus arteriosus in newborns?

Patent ductus arteriosus is a congenital heart disease that can be effectively cured through timely treatment. Treatments include medication, interventional therapy, and surgery, and the specific choice depends on the severity of the disease and the physical condition of the child.

1. Drug treatment. For newborns with milder symptoms, doctors may recommend the use of drugs to help the ductus arteriosus close. Commonly used drugs include indomethacin and ibuprofen, which inhibit prostaglandin synthesis and promote ductal contraction and closure. Drug treatment is usually performed early after birth and has a high success rate, but it must be used under the guidance of a doctor to avoid side effects.

2. Interventional therapy. For newborns who are not responsive to drug therapy or whose condition is more serious, interventional therapy is a minimally invasive and effective method. Through catheter technology, the doctor inserts the occluder into the arterial ductus arteriosus to block abnormal blood flow. Commonly used occluders include coils and Amplatzer occluders. Interventional therapy is less invasive and has a quick recovery, and is suitable for most children.

3. Surgical treatment. When interventional treatment cannot be implemented or the condition is complicated, surgical treatment is the final choice. The surgery directly ligates or cuts off the arterial duct through thoracotomy or thoracoscopic technology. The surgical methods include traditional thoracotomy and minimally invasive thoracoscopic surgery, the latter of which is less invasive and has faster recovery. The success rate of surgical treatment is high, but the appropriate plan should be selected according to the specific situation of the child.

The prognosis of a newborn with patent ductus arteriosus is usually good. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are key. Parents should closely observe the newborn's symptoms, such as shortness of breath and feeding difficulties, and seek medical attention in a timely manner. Regular follow-up is required after treatment to monitor heart function and growth and development. With scientific treatment and care, most children can fully recover and return to normal life.