Minimally invasive patent ductus arteriosus occlusion in 5 dogs.

OBJECTIVE

To report a technique for minimally invasive occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and outcome in 5 dogs.

STUDY

DESIGN

Clinical cases.

ANIMALS: Five, 4-6-month-old, dogs with PDA.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Titanium ligating clips were used for PDA closure in all dogs. Three dogs had video-enhanced mini-thoracotomy PDA occlusion. Two other dogs had thoracoscopic PDA occlusion using a custom-designed thoracoscopy clip applicator.

RESULTS

Thoracoscopic PDA occlusion was successful in both dogs in which it was attempted. Complete PDA closure was achieved in 4 dogs. Three months after surgery, the largest dog had residual ductal flow that hemodynamically was insignificant.

CONCLUSIONS

Although technically demanding, minimally invasive PDA occlusion is a safe and reliable technique in dogs. Preoperative measurement of the diameter of the PDA is crucial to determine if complete closure with metal clips can be achieved.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Minimally invasive PDA occlusion should be considered as an alternative to occlusion via conventional thoracotomy.