What is the problem in PDA closure in premature babies ?
The premature babies are born with a PDA just like any other baby. But, their PDA has smaller amount of muscle only since it did not get enough time in utero. So, when exposed to higher amount of oxygen after birth, the PDA may still not close. This results in a patent ductus arteriosus. This affects the premature lungs of a baby more than that of a full term baby. While a full term baby may be able to tolerate a PDA for several months before requiring closure, a premature baby may need to have it closed much sooner.