Objectives: To compare the different methods of treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and evaluate the role of charity missions in availing the expensive devices for needy patients where the resources are limited.
Background: The role of surgery is gradually being taken over by catheter intervention, however the cost in not affordable to most of our patients. Charity organizations are helping limited resource countries by availing the devices.
Methods: All paediatrics patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) patients presenting to Medani Heart Centre (MHC) in a 6-year period were included in this study. The study included 337 patients. 283 were treated by catheter intervention group (A) and 54 were treated surgically group (B), 22 patients were referred for surgery from the catheterization laboratory, and 32 were treated when there was no visiting teams.
Results: A total of 337 patients were included in this study, 32 were treated surgically by the local surgical teams. Out of remaining 305 patients 283 were found suitable for catheterization intervention, and were treated successfully, 22(%7) were having other congenital anomalies or PDA not suitable for intervention and were referred to surgery. 54 patients were treated by surgical ligation, 22 were referred from the intervention group and 32 were treated surgically when there were no visiting delegates and patients’ condition dictate urgent intervention, with good results. Devices were provided by charity organizations and delivered by the visiting teams, the choice of device depends on the availability.
Conclusions: Surgery remains a good modality of treatment were the resources are scares, however a number of charity organizations are offering these expensive devices for countries of low and middle income making it possible for the poor patients to have such treatment. The results of both treatments are excellent