A video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical technique for interruption of patent ductus arteriosus

We describe herein a technique for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure using a method of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical (VATS) interruption derived from video-assisted endoscopic surgery. This technique of repair was performed on five patients with a mean age of 3 years and a mean weight of 13.7 kg during 1994 and 1995. Under general anesthesia, two 10-mm trocars and two or three 5-mm trocars were inserted through the left thoracic wall. A video camera and specially designed surgical tools including scissors, dissectors, and a clip applicator were then introduced. The ductus was dissected, and two titanium clips were applied to interrupt the ductus completely. Successful closure of the PDA by this video-assisted technique was achieved in all patients. The only complication which developed in one patient was hoarseness for 2 weeks postoperatively. The hospital stay ranged from 7 to 12 days and there were no serious complications or deaths. There results indicate that video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical interruption is a safe and effective technique for achieving closure of PDA.