Why Is the Ductus Venosus Important

The ductus venosus is a shunt that allows oxygenated blood in the umbilical vein to bypass the liver and is essential for normal fetal circulation. Blood becomes oxygenated in the placenta and travels to the right atrium via umbilical veins through the ductus venosus, then to the inferior vena cava.

What would happens if the ductus venosus fails to close?

After birth, the ductus venosus closes due to changes in intracardiac pressures and a decrease in endogenous prostaglandins. Failure of the ductus venosus to close may result in galactosemia, hypoxemia, encephalopathy with hyperammonia, and hepatic dysfunction.

What is the function of the ductus venosus in the fetus and when does it cease to function after birth?

� As soon as the baby is born, the foramen ovale, ductus arteriosus ductus venosus and umbilical vessels are no longer needed. � The sphincter in the ductus venosus constricts, so that all blood entering the liver passes through the hepatic sinusoids.