Your Notifications
All done, no notifications

What is Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)?

A heart condition known as patent ductus arteriosus, or PDA, may appear shortly after birth.

A persistent gap between the two main blood arteries that emerge from the heart is known as the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

The blood flow system for an unborn child, often known as a fetus in the womb, includes an entrance known as the ductus arteriosus. Usually, it shuts down soon after delivery. It is referred to as a patent ductus arteriosus if the opening stays open.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

Timely management of Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is necessary to avoid consequences such as inadequate oxygenation, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure.

PDA raises the risk of infective endocarditis and strains the heart, which can cause long-term lung and heart damage if treatment is not received.

Early intervention promotes children's improved growth and general health while preventing developmental delays.

For those impacted, timely intervention guarantees fewer complications and enhances their quality of life.

What are the Common Symptoms of Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)?

A large PDA diagnosed during infancy or childhood might cause :

  • Poor feeding, which results in poor growth
  • Crying or eating while perspiring
  • Breathing too quickly or feeling out of breath all the time
  • Easy tiring
  • Elevated heart rate
  • Inadequate growth or weight gain

Taking Care of the Patent Ductus Arteriosus During Pregnancy

  • A small patent ductus arteriosus may not hinder a successful pregnancy. However, the risk of significant pregnancy issues is increased in case of a large PDA or a condition such as heart failure, lung injury, or irregular heartbeats.
  • Discuss potential pregnancy risks and consequences with your healthcare provider before getting pregnant. Certain cardiac medications may be harmful to a developing fetus. Before you get pregnant, your doctor may decide to stop or modify your medication.
  • The healthcare team can plan any particular care required during pregnancy. Pregnancy-related genetic testing and screening may be performed if you are at a high risk of giving birth to a child who has a cardiac problem.

Causes, Risk Factors and Complications of Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

Causes

The cause of this illness is unknown to researchers. A family history of the disease or genetic problems are two possible causes of patent ductus arteriosus. Additional PDA reasons could be:

  • Pregnancy-related German measles
  • Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Neonates

Risk Factors

Risk factors for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) include:

  • Premature birth
  • Family history and other genetic conditions
  • German measles during pregnancy
  • Being born at a high altitude
  • Female sex assigned at birth

Complications

A small patent ductus arteriosus might not cause complications. Larger, untreated PDAs could cause:

  • High blood pressure in the lungs is also called pulmonary hypertension
  • Heart failure
  • A heart infection called endocarditis

Connect with our advisor for a PRIORITY response

Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) in Singapore

  • In Singapore, there are successful therapeutic options for patients of all ages with Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), including indomethacin for premature newborns, transcatheter device closure for older children and adults, and surgical ligation when required.

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) Prevention Tips

The prevention of patent ductus arteriosus is unknown. But it's essential to take every precaution to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Here are a few essentials:

  • Take folic acid now
  • Stay active and engage in exercise
  • Get early prenatal care, even before you're pregnant
  • Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
  • Obtain the recommended vaccinations
  • Manage your blood sugar levels

Treatment options for Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)

Cardiac catheterisation: Cardiac catheterisation involves inserting a flexible tube, threading it through a blood vessel to the heart, closing the patent ductus arteriosus and stopping blood flow.

PDA closure: Surgery for patent ductus arteriosus involves a lateral chest incision made by the surgeon. They use a metal clip or sutures to close the PDA.


Cost Start From USD 10000 - USD 20000Explore Options

The diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus can be aided by tests.

  • Echocardiogram: Images of the beating heart are created by sound waves. This test illustrates the blood flow of the heart and its valves. It can determine whether the heart has a persistent opening.
  • Chest X-ray: This test reveals the state of the lungs and heart.
  • EKG, or electrocardiogram: This quick and easy test captures the electrical signals that comprise the heartbeat.
  • Cardiac catheterisation: This test isn't usually needed to diagnose patent ductus arteriosus.

The primary components of PDA rehabilitation are monitoring and supportive care. But in more serious situations or following surgery, rehabilitation might entail:

  • Cardiac rehabilitation: The goal is to strengthen the heart and enhance cardiovascular health.
  • Physical therapy: To aid in recuperation, particularly in cases of developmental delays, post-operative muscle weakness, or chronic heart strain.
  • Respiratory Therapy: If increased blood flow to the lungs has caused injury, respiratory therapy restores lung function.
  • Monitoring and Ongoing Care: To guarantee long-term health and keep an eye on heart function, schedule routine check-ups with medical professionals.

PDA medicines, which decrease blood flow through the vessel, aid in stimulating the closure of the ductus arteriosus, particularly in moderate cases or preterm infants.

Instantly Connect with our Specialists

Doctor 1
Doctor 2
Doctor 3
Doctor 4
Doctor 5
Doctor 6
Doctor 7
Doctor 8

Hospitals for Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in Singapore

Thomson Medical Centre: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Thomson Medical Centre

Singapore, Singapore

Apart from in-detail treatment procedures available, Thomson Medical Centre located in Thomson Road, Singapore has a wide variety of facilities available for International Patients. Some of the facilities which are provided by them are Accommodation, Airport Transfer, Choice of Meals, Interpreter, SIM, TV inside room. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • The bed capacity of Thomson Medical Center (of Thomson Medical Group) is 190.
  • Thomson Medical Group has a prominent presence throughout Asia in Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.
  • There is a 24/7 Outpatient Family Clinic.
  • TMC also consists of various fertility clinics inclusive of an IVF clinic.
  • A cancer center for breast, gynecological as well as colorectal tumors of women.
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital

Novena, Singapore

Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital located in Novena, Singapore is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Capacity of 333 beds
  • Intensive Care Unit beds
  • Endoscopy beds
  • Day ward with 20 beds
  • 13 Operating Theatres, which includes 1 Neurological operating room, 2 Cardiac operating rooms, 4 Orthopaedic operating rooms, etc.
  • High Dependency Unit (HDU)
  • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
  • 24/7 Accident & Emergency Department
  • Maternity ward
  • 1 major operating unit with 13 operating rooms inclusive of 1 hybrid theatre
  • In-house Pharmacy
  • Rooms are categorized as Single Signature Rooms, Junior Suite and Regal Suite
  • All patient rooms are equipped with electric safe, LCD, sofa cum bed, wardrobe, radio channels, and much more
Parkway East Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Parkway East Hospital

Singapore, Singapore

Parkway East Hospital located in Joo Chiat Pl, Singapore is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Total capacity for 143 beds
  • Hospital rooms are available- Single room, 2-bedded room (8), 4-bedded room (2), Deluxe room, and Orchid/Hibiscus Suite
  • All rooms are equipped with all ensuite facilities like Free wifi, mini fridge, sofa couch, telephone, in-room safe, TV, etc.
  • Maternity wards- Accredited as a baby-friendly hospital under the World Health Organisations Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI)
  • 1 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with 14 cots
  • Intensive Care Unit
  • 1 Operation Theatre with 5 Operating rooms
  • 1 Nursery with 30 cots
  • 1 Parentcraft room
  • 24-hour walk-in-clinic (for emergency)
  • 24-hour Pharmacy

Our Services to better your experience

Opinion & Option

We submit the most accurate opinion and options from one or more countries for your review

Consult Privately

Consult with a certified specialist privately on our telemedicine platform even before you decide to travel

Logistics

We handle flights, visas, transfers, and accommodation—so you can focus on your health.

Recovery

Our In-house rehabilitation service packages to better your recovery and treatment outcome

Why choose Singapore for Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Treatment?

Here are some of the reasons to choose Singapore:

  • Advanced Medical Technology: Singapore provides cutting-edge facilities that use minimally invasive surgical procedures to treat coronary artery disease.
  • World-Class Experts: Highly experienced cardiologists and surgeons with international training, backed by JCI-accredited healthcare facilities.
  • Cost-Effective Treatment: Compared to many Western countries, treatment in Singapore is less expensive while maintaining high quality.
  • International Patient Services: Singapore hospitals offer exceptional multilingual care and assistance to international patients.
  • Innovative Treatment Options: Modern technologies include biologic medicines and recent research on Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. If your infant develops new symptoms, notify your healthcare provider immediately and keep all scheduled follow-up appointments.

Healthcare professionals can fix a PDA if it doesn't close. If moderate and large-sized PDAs in babies and children are not treated on time, they may be more likely to develop cardiac problems as adults.

Studies have shown that transcatheter procedures with tools such as the Amplatzer Duct Occluder can close Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) with up to 100% effectiveness in Singapore. These minimally invasive procedures are safe, efficient, and associated with a low rate of complications and a rapid recovery.

The majority of PDA newborns who receive therapy go on to lead active, healthy lives.

Sometimes, the PDA may spontaneously close in the initial days or weeks following birth, especially in premature babies. However, medical attention could be required if it persists or produces symptoms.

If there are no more cardiac abnormalities, blood flow quickly returns to normal following catheterisation or surgery.

The most prevalent cardiac issue affecting newborns is patent ductus arteriosus. Premature babies are more likely to be diagnosed with the condition by medical professionals. The earlier the infant is born, the higher the risk.

  • About 10% of babies born between weeks 30 and 37 of pregnancy have PDA.
  • Eighty per cent of babies are born between weeks 25 and 28 of pregnancy.
  • 90% of kids are born before the 24-week mark.

There is a very low chance of recurrence if the wound has been effectively closed through medication, catheterisation, or surgery. However, routine follow-ups are crucial for monitoring heart health and preventing issues.