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.