Comparing two methods for managing heart conditions in premature infants

2/2 Percutaneous Intervention Versus Observational Trial of Arterial ductus management in Low-weight infants (PIVOTAL) Data Coordinating Center

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11021017

This study is looking at the best ways to treat a heart condition called patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm babies who don't get better with medicine, comparing a gentle procedure to just waiting and seeing, to help find out which option keeps these little ones healthier in the long run.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11021017 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the management of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), a common heart condition in preterm infants that can lead to serious health issues. It compares a minimally invasive procedure called percutaneous catheter-based closure with a watchful waiting approach for infants who do not respond to medication. The study aims to determine which method is more effective in preventing long-term complications such as chronic lung disease and brain injury. By analyzing outcomes from both approaches, the research seeks to provide clearer guidance for treating this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants diagnosed with symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus who have not responded to medication.

Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or do not have symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for premature infants with PDA, potentially reducing the risk of serious long-term health issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using minimally invasive techniques for similar conditions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.