Patent ductus arteriosus (review): history, anatomy and physiology of a functioning duct

Abstract

Fetal communication in the vascular system of the fetus is necessary for fetal blood circulation. Metabolic support is provided through the placenta and vessels of the umbilical cord. The function of the arterial duct (ductus arteriosus) is the main component of the fetal blood circulation, which acts as a link between the pulmonary artery and aorta when the babys lungs are not functioning and the placenta is the gas exchange organ. Disorders occurring in the physiological processes of the cardiovascular system, especially in the intranatal period, can lead to the development of severe pathology. One of the most important defects in the structure and, consequently, in the nature of the blood flow, is the failure of the arterial duct. The patent ductus arteriosus is a necessary anatomical structure at the heart of the fetal circulatory system. Normally, the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) must close soon after birth, turning into a ligamentum arteriosum. If there is no closure of the duct or its partial obliteration occurs, then it means there is the presence of the defect. The references to it go far into antiquity. This review presents the main stages of study, anatomical and physiological features of the ductus arteriosus.