Successful patent ductus arteriosus device closure in a patient with massive pulmonary embolism

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a fetal blood vessel that normally closes after birth.
• PDA can remain open beyond 3 months of age, leading to abnormal left-to-right shunting of blood.
• Silent PDA, undiagnosed in infancy, can present later in life.

Observation:

• A 33-year-old male presented with pulmonary embolism.
• Incidental diagnosis revealed a large PDA with a significant left-to-right shunt.
• Pulmonary embolism is a rare complication of left-to-right shunts.

Findings:

• The patient's pulmonary embolism was successfully managed.
• Elective device closure of the large PDA was performed.
• This case highlights the possibility of PDA in adult pulmonary embolism.

Implications:

• Pulmonary embolism associated with PDA, even large shunts, must be considered in diagnosis.
• Device closure of PDA is a feasible treatment for patients with massive pulmonary embolism.
• Early diagnosis and management of PDA can prevent severe complications like pulmonary embolism.