Percutaneous transluminal valvuloplasty of acquired aortic stenosis in elderly patients: an alternative to valve replacement?

Percutaneous transluminal balloon catheter aortic valvuloplasty (PTAV) was carried out in three elderly patients with acquired severe aortic valve stenosis. Transvalvular systolic pressure gradient was considerably decreased at the end of the procedure, during which there were no complications. Increased valve opening was confirmed by angiography and echocardiography. Subsequent clinical course showed a pronounced functional improvement. PTAV is recommended as a simple alternative to aortic valve replacement in elderly and/or high-risk patients.