title: Pathophysiology of patent ductus arteriosus in premature neonates.
abstract: Failure of complete postnatal closure of the ductus arteriosus is associated with various neonatal morbidities. Functional closure resulting from smooth muscle constriction and permanent anatomic closure due to vascular remodeling are the results of a complex interaction of different mechanisms. Prostaglandins, oxygen, nitric oxide and various other factors play a key role in ductal closure. An understanding of the role of these factors, involved both in maintenance of vascular tone of the ductus in fetal life as well as stimulation of ductal closure in postnatal life, and the cardiovascular and respiratory consequences of a patent ductus arteriosus, is important for the clinician involved in management of premature neonates.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75246, USA. Arpitha.Chiruvolu@baylorhealth.edu
authors.forename: Arpitha
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Chiruvolu
authors.forename: Mambarath A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Jaleel
mesh_terms: D004374:Ductus Arteriosus, Patent / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature