The Ductus Venosus

Markus Born1

  • 1Department of Radiology, Division of Pediatric Radiology, University Hospital Bonn, Germany.

Rofo : Fortschritte Auf Dem Gebiete Der Rontgenstrahlen Und Der Nuklearmedizin
|November 5, 2020
PubMed

Insights

The ductus venosus (DV) is often patent in newborns and should not be mistaken for a shunt. Proper placement of umbilical vein catheters is crucial for pediatric radiologists to avoid complications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Radiology
  • Vascular Anatomy

Background:

  • The ductus venosus (DV) is a critical fetal vessel with implications in pediatric radiology.
  • Familiarity with DV physiology and pathology is essential for radiologists caring for pediatric patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the imaging findings of the ductus venosus in neonates.
  • To highlight the importance of recognizing the DV and its role in umbilical vein catheterization.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of Medline database.
  • Keywords used: "ductus venosus" and "umbilical vein catheter".

Main Results:

  • The ductus venosus is typically patent in the early weeks of life and should be differentiated from portosystemic shunts.
  • Umbilical vein catheters should be positioned to align with the DV, ending near the right atrium.
  • Malposition and extravasation are key radiological concerns for umbilical vein catheters.

Conclusions:

  • The patent ductus venosus in neonates requires accurate identification to avoid misdiagnosis.
  • Correct placement of umbilical vein catheters is vital, with malpositions and extravasations being significant findings.
  • Agenesis of the ductus venosus can lead to compensatory shunts that may require intervention.
Abstract

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