[Axillary vertical incision thoracotomy sparing pectoralis major muscle and latissimus dorsi muscle: an approach for patent ductus arteriosus].

The technique of an axillary vertical incision thoracotomy sparing pectoralis major muscle and latissimus dorsi muscle for a closure of patent ductus arteriosus is presented. After an mid-axillary vertical incision, serratus anterior muscle is incised on the third intercostal space between pectoralis major muscle and latissimus dorsi muscle. The space between serratus anterior muscle and rib cage (Spatium intermusc. thoracale) is dissected with a finger, through this space the 3rd intercostal thoracotomy is performed in the axillary and dorsal portion. The ventral part of intercostal muscle is incised from inside of the thoracic cavity for sparing the pectoralis major muscle. We performed this technique in two patients aged 1 year, and secured equally good operative fields as could be secured by the original axillary vertical incision thoracotomy described by Browne.