Thoracoscopic clipping and ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus.

Several techniques of patent ductus arteriosus occlusion primarily by thoracotomy have been practiced. They have shown to be more reliable than nonsurgical procedures. Videothoracoscopy has been useful in several intrathoracic surgical procedures with faster recovery and minimal mortality and morbidity. We report 2 patients with clipping and ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus by a thoracoscopic approach. This technique may be useful in children with a noncomplicated patent ductus arteriosus. It allows an easier recovery and causes less pain.