2- Dimensional and Doppler Echoardiographic Evaluation of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Thirty four cases with the clinical impression of PDA were studied by M-mode, 2-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography techniques. The age range was between 8 months and 16 years. Cardiac catheterization and angiography were performed in 15 cases. Ductus arteriousus was clearly shown by 2-D echocardiography in 24 cases. Continuous flow was demonstrated by Doppler echocardiography in 32 patients. This flow was in maximal intensity in 21 patients whose pulmonary artery pressures were within normal limits. The intensity of flow was decreasing in diastole in 10 patients whose pulmonary artery systolic pressures were between 50-95 mmHg. In one case with pulmonary artery pressure a systemic level spectral pattern of bidirectional shund was recorded. We conclude that 2-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography are sensitive and specific methods for the diagnosis of PDA.