Ductus Arteriosus, Patent

**Definition:** A congenital heart defect characterized by the persistent opening of fetal DUCTUS ARTERIOSUS that connects the PULMONARY ARTERY to the descending aorta (AORTA, DESCENDING) allowing unoxygenated blood to bypass the lung and flow to the PLACENTA. Normally, the ductus is closed shortly after birth.

**Tree numbers:** - C14.240.400.340 - C14.280.400.340 - C16.131.240.400.340

**Synonyms:** - Patency of the Ductus Arteriosus - Patent Ductus Arteriosus