PDA/ Patent Ductus Arteriosus/ Heart Murmur Bead

After birth, when the baby begins to breathe, the ductus arteriosus should close to allow blood to flow to the lungs to become oxygenated. In preemies it may remain open, causing Patent Ductus Arteriosus or PDA. A PDA, which occurs in 8% of infants born between 30 and 32 weeks and more often in younger preemies, causes abnormal circulation. Medication, surgery, or just time may be needed to help close the ductus. This bead represents the PDA and the treatment that goes along with resolving this condition.