Patent ductus arteriosus in neonates.

Patency of the ductus arteriosus is one of the more common problems of the neonate. Although the ductus arteriosus usually closes within the first days of life, persistent patency can complicate the clinical status of a newborn. The ductus arteriosus also may play a role in the pathophysiology of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn and in some forms of congenital heart disease. Diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus can be suspected clinically but should be verified by echocardiography before treatment. Accurate diagnosis, early intervention and proper treatment are necessary to decrease the immediate risks and minimize the potential for long-term complications.