Premature contraction of the ductus arteriosus: A cause of foetal death

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Abstract
Necropsy findings are presented of 2 cases of fetal heart failure secondary to premature, in utero contraction of the ductus arteriosus. Premature ductal contraction led to a redirection of the right heart output either through the pulmonary vascular bed or to the systemic circulation via the foramen ovale. The muscular pulmonary arteries were not dilated, indicating that no excessive pulmonary flow had occurred. The increased volume load on the right heart may have rendered the foramen ovale restrictive, with right-sided heart failure as a consequence. Premature closure of the ductus arteriosus was considered a cause of fetal or early neonatal death.