Prophylactic and early targeted treatment of patent ductus arteriosus

Abstract

Treatment of a haemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in the very preterm infant has been an accepted approach for several decades. However, the rationale for closure of PDA has recently been challenged due to reports of success with conservative approaches and the lack of evidence for longer-term benefits from treatment. In this article, we address an approach to assess treatment of those babies most likely to benefit.

Keywords: Early targeted treatment; Ibuprofen; Indomethacin; Patent ductus arteriosus; Preterm; Prophylactic treatment.