RESUMO
The number of people above the age of 14 in Suriname living with an uncorrected persisting ductus arteriosus (PDA) lies probably between 100 and 200. The life expectancy of these people is reduced by about 50 per cent. Many of them will die at an early age from congestive heart failure, pulmonary hypertension or bacterial endocarditis. A series of 11 adult patients is described in whom PDA was diagnosed and confirmed by catheterization. Seven patients were corrected surgically; in two above the age of 35 and with low ductal flow, operation was considered unnecessary. The decision in the two remaining patients requires further study. Patients with PDA can easily be recognised by the typical murmur, which can be heard at the left side of the thorax in the second and third intercostal space. Not only young children, but also adults with this type of murmur should be referred to a cardiological centre. Also when free from symptoms, they may benefit from surgical treatment. Surgical correction increases life expectancy in most adults. Although vaccination programs for school girls will eventually reduce the incidence of PDA by eliminating the rubella syndrome, inherited PDA will continue to be a common congenital disorder. In Suriname the number of newborn infants with PDA will remain between 5 and 10 per year.(AU)
