American Academy of Pediatrics Clinical Report Updates Guidance on Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Preterm Infants

The American Academy of Pediatrics has updated clinical guidance for evaluation and treatment of newborns with a heart condition, patent ductus arteriosus or PDA, which is most seen in preterm infants. The clinical report, “Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Preterm Infants,” published in the May 2025 Pediatrics (published online April 28) reviews the available evidence from multiple clinical trials and observational studies conducted since the prior report was published in 2016. In most infants, a blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus closes on its own soon after birth, having fulfilled its function of carrying blood away from the lungs while the baby is in the womb. However, in preterm infants, particularly those born extremely preterm, closure is often delayed and  associated with medical complications. The AAP recommends a conservative approach, as the patent ductus often resolves and closes on its own. Available research finds that outcomes are not improved when closure is initiated early (before two weeks of age), whether by medication, catheterization or surgical means. The report, written by the Committee on Fetus and Newborn and Section on Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, observes that management in preterm infants with the condition continues to evolve and provides recommendations. All clinical reports created by AAP are written by medical experts, reflect the latest evidence in the field, and go through several rounds of peer review before being approved by the AAP Board of Directors and published in Pediatrics. To request an embargoed copy of the clinical report or interview with an author, contact AAP Public Affairs.

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The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.