G74 Managing The Patent Ductus Arteriosus - How, When and Who

Aim To compare the differences in the management of the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) between neonatologists and paediatric cardiologists in the context of the current evidence base. Method Consultant and registrar neonatologists and paediatric cardiologists throughout the deanery were contacted via email to complete an online cross-sectional survey collecting quantitative and qualitative data on the management of a neonatal PDA. The survey included 26 points and was largely scenario based. The questionnaire was validated through an initial local pilot. No ethical approval was required. Results Of the 53 physicians contacted, 20 neonatologists and 26 paediatric cardiologists completed the questionnaire (87% response rate). Paediatric cardiologists are significantly more likely than neonatologists (60% vs 31%; p Conclusion For the first time we have shown that the practises of paediatric cardiologists vary significantly from those of neonatologist when managing a PDA. These differences may reflect a lack of consistent data regarding PDA closure and highlight the need for greater guidance in this controversial area. We have shown such guidance to be in strong demand by physicians. Moreover, such work could facilitate a practise that better reflects the current best-evidence.