Videothoracoscopic surgical interruption of patent ductus arteriosus.

A videothoracoscopic surgical technique for closure of patent ductus arteriosus in children is described. Only three ports of access are necessary to dissect the patent ductus arteriosus from the surrounding tissues and to apply the two titanium clips. The advantages given are the technique's low morbidity, lack of mortality, and reliable closure. We believe that the videothoracoscopic surgical approach is the technique of choice for patent ductus arteriosus closure in children.