Over the past two decades there has been an exponential growth in the use of thoracoscopy in children. Indeed, many advanced procedures-including lobectomy, repair of tracheoesophageal fistula, excision of mediastinal tumours, and diaphragmatic hernia repairs-can now be performed by this means in advanced paediatric surgical centres in the world. This review describes the historical perspectives and the current state of thoracoscopic surgery, including potential benefits and challenges, in children.
Keywords: Child; Thoracoscopy.