[Open mitral valvuloplasty in 40 cases].

From Dec. 1987 to June 1991, open mitral valvuloplasty was done in 40 patients. Among them rheumatic valve disease was observed in 35 cases. The early postoperative result was excellent. We consider that the requisites for this operation are noncalcification of anterior mitral leaflet with sufficient size and flexibility, without significant fusion and shortening of subvalvar structures, and readiness of valve replacement in case of its failure.