Lung function measurements in very low birth weight infants after patent ductus arteriosus ligation

Objective: The indications and strategies for treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) are controversial, and the safety and long-term benefits of surgical PDA closure remain uncertain. The aim of this study was to compare the lung function of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants after PDA treatment with a cyclooxygenase inhibitor or surgical ligation. Study design: A total of 114 VLBW infants (birth weight FRC ) by the rapid thoracoabdominal compression technique, exhaled NO (FeNO), and arterialized capillary blood gas analysis. Results: On the day of the LFT, the 2 groups had similar postconceptional age and body weight. However, the PDA ligation group was more immature at birth ( p p FRC ( p = 0.006), increased airway resistance (R aw ) ( p p aw and reduced respiratory compliance. Conclusions: PDA ligation is associated with impaired lung function in infants with a postmenstrual age of 48 weeks.