Video-assisted thoracoscopic division of a vascular ring in an infant: a new operative technique

We report the first successful use of thoracoscopy and video-assisted thoracic surgery (TVATS) techniques to relieve extrinsic tracheoesophageal compression produced by a vascular ring. The patient was a 3-month-old infant with postprandial regurgitation and a diagnosis of double aortic arch. After an uncomplicated operation and recovery, the infant was discharged on the second postoperative day. Refinement of technique and instrumentation may allow wider application of video-assisted thoracoscopic techniques in pediatric patients.