Factors Predicting Spontaneous Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Very Low Birth Weight Neonates

Background Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a relatively rare condition among neonates in the United States, estimated at approximately 1 in every 2,000 births. Managing hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA) in very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates remains a challenge. This study aims to explore and report on the spontaneous closure of hsPDA in VLBW infants in a clinical setting. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of VLBW infants born from 2006 to 2014 at our institution. Infants included in the study were diagnosed with hsPDA via echocardiogram in the first week of life. We divided our population into two study groups: 1) those with PDA closure before discharge without medical/surgical treatment (spontaneous closure) and 2) those with closure by medical/surgical treatment. Relevant baseline data and PDA-related parameters were extracted from the medical records. Results A total of 108 infants were included in the study; 52 experienced spontaneous PDA closure, and 56 required treatment. Of the baseline characteristics, gestational age and mode of delivery differed significantly between the two groups. Within the adjusted model, cesarean section (CS) (OR: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.06-0.55), average pre-diagnosis partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) (OR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.86-0.98), and pre- diagnosis daily fluid intake (OR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.94-0.99) were associated with increased odds of spontaneous closure. Conclusion In our study of VLBW infants, several variables were associated with spontaneous hsPDA closure. Studies with larger sample sizes are much needed and have the potential to clinically impact the outcomes of neonates living with this relatively rare condition.