Prostaglandin E1 is indicated for use in which congenital heart condition?

• A. Atrial septal defect
• B. Coarctation of the aorta
• C. Ventricular septal defect
• D. Patent ductus arteriosus

Answer: (B)

Prostaglandin E1 keeps the ductus arteriosus open, which can be lifesaving when the baby’s circulation depends on that ductus to perfuse the body. In coarctation of the aorta, the narrowing after birth can severely limit blood flow to the lower body. The ductus arteriosus can provide a crucial alternative route from the pulmonary artery to the aorta, so keeping it patent with Prostaglandin E1 maintains distal systemic perfusion until surgical repair can be done. Atrial or ventricular septal defects aren’t typically duct-dependent in this urgent way, and a PDA itself is the structure you’d aim to close when indicated, not keep open. Therefore, the best indication among these options is coarctation of the aorta.