Evaluation of aortic elastic properties in the long-term follow-up of surgical and catheter interventional closure of the persistent ductus arteriosus

Ductal closure by the means of catheter intervention is nowadays the standard
treatment for PDA. Clinical follow-up is normally discontinued after
documentation of a succesfull intervention. Data from animal studies suggest,
that there might be a subgroup of patients in which the PDA is part of a more
complex vascular disease. These patients might profit from specific
cardiovascular follow-up. Aim of the study is to identify the patients at risk
for aortic aneurysms after PDA-closure. In the past MRI has proven to be a
reliable diagnostic tool to investigate cardiovascular morfology and function.
In adolescents and young adults quality of echocardiographic images decreases.
The advantage of MRI imaging lies in its non-invasive nature and
reproducibility. Therefore MRI is an attractive method for this longitudinal
study.

1. To identify the patients at risk for aortic aneurysms after PDA closure.

We expect to find a decreased distensibility of the aorta in this subgroup of
patients which will be examined by MRI. Besides the functional MRI study
genetic testing of the patients is intended. Predisposing mutations and DNA
loci known to be associated with inheritable aortic dissection and/or PDA.

2. To gain longterm data on possible aortic changes in patients after
PDA-closure.

3. To stratify the patientgroup with PDA by the need of follow-up after ductal
closure.

prospective patient-based study

Burden of the patient/parents:
1. completion of a questionnaire: burden minimal, no risks.
2. MRI-scan: burden minimal: 2 hours study-time plus travel to the hospital,
no risks in probands without contraindications.
3. DNA-study: burden minimal: venipuncture: risk low, genetic counseling will
be offered to patients with clinical relevant results.