What is a Patent Ductus Arteriosus?

The ductus arteriosus is a channel between the main arteries from the left and the right ventricles.  It is required before birth as the lungs are not yet functional.  After birth, it normally closes and seals completely.

If the PDA does not close completely, then there can be long-term damage due to the extra volume of blood volume passing through the wrong chambers. These holes rarely need cardiac surgery to be closed, as they can be closed using devices deployed through tubes from the leg.

Dr McGaw has expertise in this procedure.

Related Conditions and Procedures

What Is an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?

An Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is a hole between the collecting chambers of the heart, the left and right atria

What is a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)?

A Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) is a hole between the left and right ventricles

What Is a Surgical Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) Closure Procedure?

What Is a Surgical Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) Closure Procedure?

What Is a Surgical Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Closure Procedure?

What Is a Surgical Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Closure Procedure?

What Is a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO)?

A Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is a hole between the hearts collecting chambers, left and right atria.

How Do You Close an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?

An Atrial Septal Defect (VSD) is closed by delivering a specific closure device from the leg.

How Do you Close a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)?

A Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) is closed by delivering a specific closure device from the leg.

How Do You Close a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO)?

A Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is closed by delivering a specific closure device from the leg.