Eur J Pediatr Surg 2014; 24(05): 431-432
DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1357752
Special Report
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Surgical Closure of Persistent Arterial Duct with Minimal Invasive Anterior Thoracotomy: An Alternative Technique

Virginie Fouilloux
1   Department of Cardiac Surgery, Timone Children's Hospital, Marseille, France
,
Célia Gran
1   Department of Cardiac Surgery, Timone Children's Hospital, Marseille, France
,
Bernard Kreitmann
1   Department of Cardiac Surgery, Timone Children's Hospital, Marseille, France
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

06 May 2013

22 August 2013

Publication Date:
10 December 2013 (online)

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Abstract

Surgical approach for persistent ductus arteriosus ligation is typically a left lateral thoracotomy opening the pleural-space with left lung retraction. We describe an alternative approach, with a minimally invasive anterior parasternal incision. This is particularly adapted to preterm infants weighing less than 1.5 kg. This approach ensures a good exposure of vessels. We believe that it is safe, reliable and reproducible. The learning curve should not be an issue for surgeons used to manage low weight patients.