Thoracoscopic clipping of patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants.

Patent ductus arteriosus is a frequent indication for surgical intervention in preterm infants. Commonly this operation is performed through a dorsolateral thoracotomy. In an animal trial (piglets smaller than 1,400 g) instruments and technique for thoracoscopic clipping of patent ductus arteriosus were developed. Since January 1993, 3 premature infants have been treated with this new minimally invasive procedure. The instruments and the surgical technique are demonstrated.