PDA Device Closure Cost in India

The ductus arteriosus, a vital blood vessel in a fetus, normally closes within two to three days after birth as part of the body's natural transition to postnatal circulation. Before birth, the ductus arteriosus allows blood to bypass the lungs, which are not yet in use. After birth, as the newborn begins to breathe on their own, this vessel becomes unnecessary and typically seals off. However, in premature infants, this closure can take longer, often due to underdeveloped lungs or low oxygen levels. If it remains open, it is termed a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and may require monitoring or treatment.

In many cases, a small PDA may close on its own without intervention, especially in newborns and infants. However, larger or symptomatic PDAs often require treatment. Pediatric cardiologists monitor the condition over time through regular checkups, checking for signs of spontaneous closure. If the PDA does not close naturally and causes symptoms such as breathing issues, fatigue, or growth delays, medications like indomethacin or ibuprofen might be administered to help facilitate closure. If these approaches fail, surgical or catheter-based closure may be necessary to prevent lung damage, heart strain, or complications like pulmonary hypertension. Timely treatment helps ensure healthy development and reduces the risk of long-term issues.

A PDA's size plays a crucial role in determining how much blood flows incorrectly between the aorta and pulmonary artery, impacting the heart and lungs. The size of the PDA is categorized as follows:

• Small PDA: Less than 1.5 mm in diameter. Often asymptomatic and may close on its own.
• Moderate PDA: Between 1.5 mm and 3 mm. This may lead to symptoms such as fatigue, feeding difficulties, or respiratory problems.
• Large PDA: Greater than 3 mm in diameter. A large PDA allows more blood to bypass the systemic circulation, putting stress on the heart and lungs, which often leads to symptoms that require medical intervention.

Transcatheter PDA closure is now a preferred method due to its minimally invasive nature and high success rates. It involves inserting a catheter through a blood vessel, typically in the groin, and guiding it to the heart to deliver a closure device that seals the PDA. The procedure is considered safe with minimal complications. However, like any medical procedure, there are some risks to consider, including:

• Device dislodgement, where the closure device shifts from its intended position.
• Impingement on nearby structures, such as arteries or heart valves.
• Soreness, bruising, or bleeding at the groin site where the catheter was inserted.

In most cases, these complications are rare and manageable. The recovery period is generally quick, and children can often resume normal activities within a few days after the procedure.

The symptoms of PDA vary depending on its size and the extent of blood flow between the aorta and pulmonary artery. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Cyanosis (blue-tinged skin or lips) due to inadequate oxygen supply.
• Rapid or labored breathing.
• Fatigue or exhaustion after minimal physical effort.
• Feeding difficulties in infants, including exhaustion while feeding or refusing to eat.
• Poor weight gain due to energy being diverted toward managing the abnormal blood flow.
• Frequent respiratory infections like pneumonia.
• In older children, difficulty participating in physical activities or exercise intolerance may be observed.

If left untreated, a large PDA can lead to complications such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension, underscoring the importance of early detection and management.

PDA is one of the most frequently occurring congenital heart defects. Each year, approximately 3,000 newborns in the United States are diagnosed with PDA. It is particularly prevalent among premature infants, whose heart and circulatory systems may not be fully developed at birth.

In fact, the earlier a baby is born, the higher the chance of PDA. Studies show that PDA is about twice as common in females as it is in males, though the reason for this gender difference is not fully understood. Early diagnosis and appropriate monitoring are essential to ensure affected infants receive timely treatment, promoting healthy growth and development.

In addition to the cost of PDA Device Closure procedure in India, there are several other expenses you should plan for when organizing your medical trip to India. These include:

• Meals: Budgeting for daily meals during your stay.
• Airfare: Budgeting for flight costs.
• Ground Transportation: Budgeting for expenses incurred towards local travel in India, such as taxi fares, ride-sharing services, or rental cars.
• Accommodation: Budgeting for lodging required before admission to hospital and during your recovery period after surgery.

By budgeting for these additional expenses along with the cost of PDA Device Closure in India, you can create a comprehensive budget to ensure a smooth, comfortable and hassle free recovery experience.