{"id":35766,"date":"2024-06-05T12:29:25","date_gmt":"2024-06-05T10:29:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/petsvetcheck.de\/krankheiten-und-stoerungen\/hund\/offener-ductus-arteriosus-blutgefaessmissbildung-am-herzen\/"},"modified":"2026-10-15T14:51:17","modified_gmt":"2026-10-15T12:51:17","slug":"patent-ductus-arteriosus-blood-vessel-malformation-on-the-heart","status":"publish","type":"krankheit","link":"https:\/\/petsvetcheck.de\/en\/diseases-and-disorders\/dog\/patent-ductus-arteriosus-blood-vessel-malformation-on-the-heart\/","title":{"rendered":"Persistent Fetal Heart Vessel in Dogs (Patent Ductus Arteriosus, PDA)"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"template":"","krankheitsort":[140],"haufigkeit":[135],"organsystem_krankheiten":[226],"class_list":["post-35766","krankheit","type-krankheit","status-publish","hentry","krankheitsort-brustkorb-en","haufigkeit-c-en","organsystem_krankheiten-cardiovascular-system","entry"],"acf":{"synonyme":"Ductus arteriosus Botalli, DAB, Ductus aorticus","synonyme_en":"Congenital Heart Defect","titel_en":"Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)","weitere_suchbegriffe":"","triage":"orange","triage_begruendung":"An open vascular connection strains the heart; have it assessed by a cardiologist early and closed.","definition":"Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart defect in dogs in which the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that normally closes at birth, remains open, leading to abnormal blood flow circulation between the aorta and the pulmonary artery.","ursachen":"The ductus arteriosus is an important blood vessel in the fetus that bypasses the lungs because the unborn animal\u2019s oxygen needs are met via the placenta. After birth, when the lungs take over oxygenation, this vessel should close. Closure is triggered by the rise in blood oxygen levels and the drop in prostaglandins, natural chemical messengers. \n\nIn dogs with PDA, however, this channel remains open, leading to a mixture of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood. This overloads the heart, especially the left atrium and left ventricle, as they have to pump more blood than usual. In the long term, this can lead to heart failure. \n\nThe exact cause of a patent ductus arteriosus is not fully understood, but genetic factors play a major role. Certain dog breeds, such as Poodles, German Shepherds, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, have a higher predisposition, suggesting a hereditary component. Environmental factors during pregnancy, such as infections or malnutrition, may also increase the risk. ","auswahl_symptome_rot":[34260,34019,34177,33869],"auswahl_symptome_blau":[33880,33803,33807,34024,34314],"auswahl_symptome_grun":[33809,34259,34191,33869,33489,33190],"erganzungen_zu_symptomen":"Dogs with a patent ductus arteriosus can have a variety of symptoms, depending on the size of the defect and the amount of blood being shunted. In many cases, symptoms are visible in the first weeks or months of life. \n\nThe most common signs include reduced exercise tolerance, rapid breathing, Cough, and delayed growth. During the physical examination, a characteristic heart murmur, known as a \"machinery murmur,\" can be heard, caused by turbulent blood flow in the patent ductus arteriosus. \n\nIn severe cases, dogs may also show signs of heart failure, such as Respiratory distress, abdominal dropsy, or fainting spells. Untreated, the condition can ultimately lead to heart enlargement and life-threatening complications. ","zusammenfassung":"Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a heart condition in dogs where a major blood vessel that should close after birth remains open. During fetal development, the ductus arteriosus bypasses the lungs as the fetus receives oxygen via the placenta. After birth, the lungs should expand and this vessel should close. In dogs with PDA, however, it remains open, leading to mixed blood flow and an overload of the heart. In the long term, this can lead to heart failure. The exact cause is unclear, but genetics are significant, and certain breeds such as Poodles and German Shepherds are more commonly affected. Symptoms range from heart murmurs and reduced exercise tolerance to Respiratory distress. For diagnosis, the veterinarian uses clinical examinations, echocardiography, and X-rays. Treatment is usually surgical by closing the vessel, which significantly improves the prognosis. Medications may be used temporarily to relieve symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the prognosis. Prevention focuses on responsible breeding practices and avoiding risk factors during pregnancy. Regular follow-up examinations ensure the heart health of operated dogs. A balanced diet for the pregnant bitch can reduce the risk of heart defects. ","diagnose":"Diagnosis of a patent ductus arteriosus often begins with a thorough clinical examination, during which the characteristic heart murmur is detected. An experienced veterinarian may then order further diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the problem. \n\nAn echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) is the method of choice to visualize a patent ductus arteriosus and assess its effects on the heart. It allows visualization of blood flow and heart structure and provides important information about the heart\u2019s size and function. \n\nIn addition, chest X-rays can be taken to assess heart size and the condition of the lungs. Electrocardiograms (ECG) can also be performed to detect possible Cardiac arrhythmia. ","behandlung":"In most cases, treatment of patent ductus arteriosus in dogs is surgical. The procedure involves tying off or closing the open vessel to stop the abnormal blood flow. This can be done either through traditional surgery or via a minimally invasive catheter-based procedure. \n\nSurgical closure has a high success rate and can significantly improve the affected dog\u2019s prognosis. The choice of approach depends on several factors, including the dog\u2019s size, age, severity of the defect, and the surgeon\u2019s experience. \n\nIn some cases\u2014especially when surgery is not immediately possible\u2014medications may be used to control symptoms and support heart function. These may include diuretics, an ACE inhibitor, and cardiac glycosides to help reduce the strain on the heart. ","prognose":"The prognosis for dogs with patent ductus arteriosus depends heavily on timely diagnosis and treatment. With early detection and successful surgical correction, many dogs can live a normal, healthy life. \n\nUntreated, the course is often unfavorable, as the continuous strain on the heart can lead to progressive heart failure and ultimately to Death. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize and treat the defect as early as possible. \n\nDogs that undergo successful surgery usually have a very good quality of life, and many experience no further heart problems. However, regular follow-up examinations are important to monitor heart health. ","ausblick_auf_aktuelle_forschung":"Research into patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in dogs aims at earlier detection, more tailored planning, and even gentler procedures. For early detection, AI-supported analyses of heart murmur recordings and simplified echocardiography screening protocols for breeding lines are being evaluated to identify at-risk litters early. In procedure planning, 3D imaging, CT angiography, and patient-specific 3D models are becoming more important: they help measure the ductus\u2019 size and shape more precisely and select the right occlusion design to avoid residual shunts. In parallel, industry is improving catheters and products for very small patients; at the same time, low-cost alternatives are being tested for regions with limited resources. \n\nAnother focus is PDA-associated pulmonary hypertension (increase in blood pressure and vascular resistance in the pulmonary circulation): studies are investigating reversibility testing as well as agents for vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), e.g., phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, and defining clear thresholds for when closure is safe. Registry and multicenter projects aim to systematically capture long-term outcomes, arrhythmia, recurrence \/ relapse, and quality of life, thereby standardizing follow-up intervals. Genetic work is still in its early stages but could support breeding advice and risk assessment in the future. The overarching goal remains: to close PDA earlier, more safely, and more individually\u2014with short hospital stays, reliable regression of heart enlargement, and consistently excellent exercise tolerance. ","zusatzlicher_inhalt_im_hauptteil":"Because patent ductus arteriosus is often genetic, prevention focuses primarily on avoiding breeding affected animals. It is important to educate breeders and owners about the risks and the genetic component, especially in predisposed breeds. \n\nScreenings and genetic tests can help identify carriers and affected dogs to prevent passing the defect on to future generations. Responsible breeding practices can help reduce the incidence of this malformation in the dog population. \n\nIn addition, avoiding risk factors during pregnancy\u2014such as stress, infections, and malnutrition\u2014can help reduce the risk of congenital heart defects. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet for the pregnant bitch can support healthy fetal development. ","haufig_gestellte_fragen_faqs":"
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  1. What is a PDA?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\nA congenital connection between the main artery (aorta) and the pulmonary artery that does not close after birth. Blood flows \"left \u2192 right\" back into the lungs. \n\n2. How do I recognize it?\n\nA persistent heart murmur (\"machinery\" murmur) is often noticed. Typical signs are rapid fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, occasional Cough, or rapid breathing. \n\n3. How is the diagnosis made?\n\nCardiac ultrasound (echocardiography with Doppler) confirms the shunt and shows the ductus\u2019 size and shape as well as the strain on the heart.\n\n4. Does every PDA need to be treated?\n\nYes, if there is a clinically relevant left-to-right shunt. Without treatment, heart enlargement, congestive heart failure, and a shortened life expectancy may occur. \n\n5. How is it treated?\n\nPreferably minimally invasive via catheter closure (e.g., occluder\/coil) through an artery or a vein. Alternatively: surgical ligation if catheterization is not possible. \n\n6. When is the best time?\n\nAs early as possible after diagnosis, often in puppyhood, as soon as body size and vessel diameter allow safe closure.\n\n7. What are the chances of success and quality of life?\n\nAfter successful closure, the prognosis is excellent; many dogs can then exercise normally and reach a normal life expectancy.\n\n8. Are there any risks or complications?\n\nRare: residual leak (residual shunt), displacement of the occlusion device, rhythm disturbances, or Bleeding\/vascular complications. The risk is low in experienced centers. \n\n9. Does my dog need medication?\n\nIf Congestive heart failure is present before the procedure, possibly temporary (e.g., diuretics). After successful closure, long-term medication is usually not required. \n\n10. What is important after the procedure?\n\nTemporary rest, monitor wound\/puncture sites. Follow-up echo (typically after 1\u20133 months) to confirm complete closure and cardiac remodeling. ","literaturangaben":"