Percutaneous transluminal balloon aortic and mitral valvuloplasty in 27 patients treated at Hermann Hospital.

Percutaneous aortic and mitral valvuloplasty are recognized as alternative interventions in cases of severe symptomatic aortic and mitral stenosis. We described the acute hemodynamic results, immediate clinical outcomes, and complications in 27 patients treated consecutively at Hermann Hospital with either percutaneous balloon aortic or mitral valvuloplasty. We review the possible mechanisms of action of balloon valvulotomy and the current indications for either procedure. Balloon aortic valvuloplasty is indicated in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis in whom open-heart surgery is contraindicated or carries excessive mortality. All patients with symptomatic mitral stenosis are potential candidates for balloon mitral valvulotomy. In centers with an experienced interventional team in transseptal catheterization and an active surgical program, balloon valvulotomy is the initial procedure of choice for significant mitral stenosis with mobile leaflets and minimal chordal thickening.