Indomethacin use for the management of patent ductus arteriosus in preterms: a web-based survey of practice attitudes among neonatal fellowship program directors in the United States

Pediatr Cardiol. 2007 May-Jun;28(3):193-200. doi: 10.1007/s00246-006-0093-1. Epub 2007 Apr 24.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine whether neonatal-perinatal fellowship programs (NFTPs) in the United States vary in indomethacin use for the management of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in < or =28 week gestational age infants at birth. A 53-item web-based survey was sent to 84 NFTP directors who received prenotification, followed 2 weeks later by a reminder letter. A total of 56 NFTP directors responded (67% maximum response rate). Wide variation exists in the maximum number of indomethacin courses used to close ductus, use of indomethacin for reopened PDA beyond 14 days, ductal closure definition, contraindications before consideration of indomethacin, interventions for contraindications, and reported ductal closer rate after each indomethacin course. Indomethacin therapy for symptomatic PDA and short course of indomethacin are common practices. Indomethacin use for the management of PDA in premature infants varies among NFTP directors. Practice attitudes may explain variations in ductal closure and ligation rates. Because practice variations may have implications for long-term outcome of vulnerable premature infants, studies relevant to the management of PDA in premature infants are needed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use*
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Ductus Arteriosus, Patent / drug therapy*
  • Epidemiologic Methods
  • Fellowships and Scholarships
  • Health Care Surveys / methods
  • Humans
  • Indomethacin / therapeutic use*
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature
  • Internet
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Outcome
  • United States

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
  • Indomethacin