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Wirral University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Wirral University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

PDA, patent ductus arteriosus

The ductus arteriosus is open during the pregnancy and the placenta supplies the foetus(baby) with oxygen. Normally within 24hours of birth when baby is breathing for himself the ductus arteriosus closes. When this flap does not close it is called a patent ductus arteriosus. It can correct itself over the next few months but may require medication or surgery to close it.