How to treat patent ductus arteriosus in newborns

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a common congenital heart disease. Treatment options include medication, interventional therapy, and surgery. The specific choice depends on the severity of the condition and the overall health of the child.

1. Drug treatment

Drug treatment is the first choice for patent ductus arteriosus in newborns, especially for premature infants or infants with mild symptoms. Commonly used drugs include:

Indomethacin: Promotes closure of the ductus arteriosus by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.

Ibuprofen: Its mechanism of action is similar to that of indomethacin, but it has relatively few side effects.

Acetaminophen: Can be used as an alternative medication in some cases.

Drug treatment is usually started early after birth and is effective, but the child's renal function and gastrointestinal reactions need to be closely monitored.

2. Interventional treatment

For children who are not responsive to drug treatment or whose condition is more serious, interventional therapy is a minimally invasive and effective method. Specific methods include:

Catheter occlusion: A catheter is inserted through the femoral vein and the occluder is delivered to the site of the arterial catheter to block blood flow.

Coil embolization: Suitable for smaller arterial catheters, the catheter is blocked using a coil.

Endovascular stenting: Used in certain situations to help keep blood vessels open.

Interventional treatment has less trauma and quick recovery, but it requires a professional team to operate and is expensive.

3. Surgical treatment

When medical treatment and interventional treatment are inappropriate or fail, surgical treatment is the final option. Surgical methods include:

Thoracotomy ligation: Direct ligation of the patent ductus arteriosus through thoracotomy.

Thoracoscopic surgery: minimally invasive surgery with less trauma and faster recovery.

Robotic-assisted surgery: advanced technology and high precision, but low penetration rate.

Surgical treatment is effective, but there are certain risks, which need to be evaluated based on the specific situation of the child.

The treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in newborns should be selected according to the individual condition and the child. Early intervention is the key. Parents should cooperate closely with regular follow-up to ensure that the child obtains the best treatment effect.