Evolution of treatment strategies and risk-stratified management of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants

Tai-Xiang LIU, Li-Ping SHI, Zheng CHEN

Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics ›› 2026, Vol. 28 ›› Issue (10) : 1305-1311.

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Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics ›› 2026, Vol. 28 ›› Issue (10) : 1305-1311. DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2606113
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Evolution of treatment strategies and risk-stratified management of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants

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Abstract

Patent ductus arteriosus is a common cardiovascular problem in preterm infants, particularly those born very preterm. Persistent left-to-right shunting may cause pulmonary overcirculation, left-sided volume overload, and systemic hypoperfusion, yet simply promoting anatomical ductal closure has not been shown to improve major clinical outcomes. Management has increasingly shifted from routine closure toward selective intervention guided by hemodynamic effects and clinical risk. This review summarizes the applicability of different management strategies, the boundaries of current evidence, and a risk-stratified management approach, providing reference for clinical decision-making and future research.

Key words

Patent ductus arteriosus / Early targeted treatment / Expectant management / Risk-stratified management / Preterm infant

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Tai-Xiang LIU , Li-Ping SHI , Zheng CHEN. Evolution of treatment strategies and risk-stratified management of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants[J]. Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics. 2026, 28(10): 1305-1311 https://doi.org/10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2606113

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