Definition of Patent ductus
Patent ductus: Failure of the ductus arteriosus, which functions in fetal life as an arterial shunt, to close on schedule at or shortly after birth. When the shunt remains open, it is said to be patent. See: Patent ductus arteriosus.
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionaryhttp://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=26031
Last Editorial Review: 10/9/2012
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