Patient's question:
Daughter was born 10 days ago and was found to have a patent ductus arteriosus (0.9mm). The child is now 110 days old, weighing 3 kg at birth and now weighing 6.4 kg. She shows no different behavior from a normal child. Can a patent ductus arteriosus heal on its own?Doctor's answer:
Generally, if the patent ductus arteriosus is less than five millimeters, it can heal on its own. Based on your description, it's only one millimeter, which is not a concern. If there are no complications, it should heal on its own, and there's no need to worry. A one-millimeter patent ductus arteriosus does not require surgery at this time. Most cases can resolve on their own, so it's best to wait a few years and see. There's no need to rush into surgery. It's recommended to have regular follow-up checks.