What is the medical term for the failure of the duct connecting the pulmonary artery to the aorta to close after birth?

The medical term for the failure of the duct that connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta to close after birth is known as Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA). During fetal development, a structure called the ductus arteriosus allows blood to bypass the pulmonary circulation because the fetus does not use its lungs while in the womb. This duct should normally close shortly after birth as the newborn begins to breathe air and the lungs become functional.

If the ductus arteriosus remains open, or "patent," it can lead to abnormal blood flow between the aorta and the pulmonary artery. This can cause increased blood flow to the lungs and potential complications such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension. Recognizing PDA is crucial for timely intervention, which can include medications or surgical procedures to close the duct.

The other options refer to different cardiac anomalies. Pulmonary Valve Stenosis involves a narrowing of the outflow tract from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery. An Atrial Septal Defect is a congenital heart defect characterized by an opening in the atrial septum, allowing blood to flow between the left and right atria. A Ventricular Septal Defect is a defect in the ventricular septum, leading