[Persistent and patent ductus arteriosus. Different forms and sizes].

In 563 consecutive heart catheter investigations in sucklings, infants and children 109 open ducti were diagnosed. 75 children (13.3%) had a ductus arteriosus persistens (DAP) and 34 a ductus arteriosus (DAA). We were able to measure 89 ducti. Groups were formed according to the age of the children, of DAP or DAA and the intended treatment. The sizes of the ducti constitute a set of data for improving the methods for closure or newly developed transvasal methods of conservation of the ductus as an aortopulmonary shunt.