[The relationship between ligation of the ductus arteriosus and intracranial hemorrhage in preterm infants].

Surgical closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and perioperative time have been proposed as conditions of increased risk of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage (PVH-IVH) in preterm infants. We examined by pre- and postoperative ultrasound (US) scan 15 low birth-weight neonates who underwent PDA ligation within the first two weeks of life. They were assessed with regard to clinical state, perioperative management and development of PVH-IVH. Fourteen did not show onset or extension of intracranial hemorrhage in the immediate postoperative period. One patient developed a wide III grade IVH in the 24 perioperative hours. His conditions were particularly severe, suggesting that many factors such as acidosis, hypoxia, hypercapnia and hypotension might have combined to lead to hemorrhage. We conclude that PDA ligation is not likely to increase the risk of PVH-IVH per se.