What is video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery?
The concept of minimally invasive surgery is a further development of the principle pioneered at Boston Children's Hospital with the introduction of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.
During this technique, a video scope is inserted into the chest through a "port," which is just a few millimeters in length. Three other ports allow instruments and retractors to be inserted. Our specialists use this approach to repair patent ductus arteriosus.
Like minimally invasive surgery, the video assisted technique is followed by more rapid recovery and minimal incisional pain. Current research is aimed at expanding the application of video-assisted throacoscopic surgery to other cardiac defects.
Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery | Programs & Services
Programs
Boston Adult Congenital Heart (BACH) and Pulmonary Hypertension
Program
The Boston Adult Congenital Heart (BACH) and Pulmonary Hypertension Program offers a full range of inpatient and outpatient clinical services to adults with congenital heart disease and pulmonary hypertension.
Learn more about Boston Adult Congenital Heart (BACH) and Pulmonary Hypertension
Departments
Cardiac Imaging
Department
The Division of Cardiac Imaging serves children and adults with congenital heart disease.
Cardiology
Department
The Department of Cardiology at the Benderson Family Heart Center is the largest pediatric cardiology center in the United States and one of the most specialized in the world.
Centers
Benderson Family Heart Center
Center
The Benderson Family Heart Center treats the full spectrum of heart disorders, including the rarest and most complex congenital heart defects.