Percutaneous balloon valvotomy for patients with severe mitral stenosis

Assessment of the left atrial volume and function following percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty: Insights into acute and late impact of atrial fibrillation on atrial remodeling

BACKGROUND

Rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) leads to LA remodeling with disordered electrical activation that may revert with valve intervention. This study aimed to assess the acute and late impact of percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMBV) on LA volume and function in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) compared with sinus rhythm.

METHODS

A total of 167 patients with severe MS undergoing PMBV were prospectively enrolled. LA volumes and function were measured by three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) pre PMBV, within 24 to 48 h after PMBV, and at 1 year.

RESULTS

Mean age was 43.5 ± 11.8 years old, and 142 (85%) patients were women. At baseline, 46 patients (27.5%) were in permanent AF, and 62 (37.1%) classified as New York Heart Association functional class III or IV. In sinus rhythm population, LA volumes decreased immediately after PMBV and continue to decrease at 1-year follow-up. LA emptying fraction increased from 23.6 ± 10.4% to 33.8 ± 11.9% acutely after the procedure (p < 0.001), and to 37.2 ± 13.2% at 1-year follow-up (p = 0.028). Patients with AF only had a significant decrease in LA minimum volume immediately after PMBV, with no significant changes in maximum volume either immediately or at follow-up. In these patients, LA emptying fraction increased immediately after the procedure from 15.8 ± 9.9% to 22.8 ± 9.8 (p = 0.001) with no evidence for additional improvement at the 1-year follow-up. Age, and post-procedural mean gradient were identified as the most significant factors associated with the absolute changes in LA function between baseline and the 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with severe MS, the impact of PMBV on LA volume and function varies according to cardiac rhythm. In patients in sinus rhythm, the procedure leads to improvement of LA volumes and function both acutely and at 1-year follow-up. Patients with AF had a lesser improvement in LA function immediately after the procedure, without further improvement over time despite adequate relief of valve obstruction.

The most influential papers in mitral valve surgery; a bibliometric analysis

This study is an analysis of the 100 most cited articles in mitral valve surgery. A bibliometric analysis is a tool to evaluate research performance in a given field. It uses the number of times a publication is cited by others as a proxy marker of its impact. The most cited paper Carpentier et al. discusses mitral valve repair in terms of restoring the geometry of the entire valve rather than simply narrowing the annulus (Carpentier, J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 86:23–37, 1983). The first successful mitral valve repair was performed by Elliot Cutler at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in 1923 (Cohn et al., Ann Cardiothorac Surg 4:315, 2015). More recently percutaneous and minimally invasive techniques that were originally designed as an option for high risk patients are being trialled in other patient groups (Hajar, Heart Views 19:160–3, 2018). Comparison of percutaneous method with open repair represents an expanding area of research (Hajar, Heart Views 19:160–3, 2018). This study will analyse the top 100 cited papers relevant to mitral valve surgery, identifying the most influential papers that guide current management, the institutions that produce them and the authors involved.

Capillary-Fiber Based Electrophoretic Delivery Device

Organic electronic ion pumps (OEIPs) are versatile tools for electrophoretic delivery of substances with high spatiotemporal resolution. To date, OEIPs and similar iontronic components have been fabricated using thin-film techniques and often rely on laborious, multistep photolithographic processes. OEIPs have been demonstrated in a variety of in vitro and in vivo settings for controlling biological systems, but the thin-film form factor and limited repertoire of polyelectrolyte materials and device fabrication techniques unnecessarily constrain the possibilities for miniaturization and extremely localized substance delivery, e.g., the greater range of pharmaceutical compounds, on the scale of a single cell. Here, we demonstrate an entirely new OEIP form factor based on capillary fibers that include hyperbranched polyglycerols (dPGs) as the selective electrophoretic membrane. The dPGs enable electrophoretic channels with a high concentration of fixed charges and well-controlled cross-linking and can be realized using a simple "one-pot" fluidic manufacturing protocol. Selective electrophoretic transport of cations and anions of various sizes is demonstrated, including "large" substances that are difficult to transport with other OEIP technologies. We present a method for tailoring and characterizing the electrophoretic channels' fixed charge concentration in the operational state. Subsequently, we compare the experimental performance of these capillary OEIPs to a computational model and explain unexpected features in the ionic current for the transport and delivery of larger, lower-mobility ionic compounds. From this model, we are able to elucidate several operational and design principles relevant to miniaturized electrophoretic drug delivery technologies in general. Overall, the compactness of the capillary OEIP enables electrophoretic delivery devices with probelike geometries, suitable for a variety of ionic compounds, paving the way for less-invasive implantation into biological systems and for healthcare applications.

Role of three dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in predicting mitral regurgitation after percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV) can be complicated with significant mitral regurgitation (MR). We performed a pilot, prospective study to evaluate the role of three dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D-TEE) in the prediction of MR after PBMV through mitral valve quantification (MVQ).

METHODS

Between October 2014 and October 2016, 37 patients with rheumatic, moderate-to-severe mitral stenosis, referred to the Cath lab of Bab Alshearia University hospitals for PBMV, were divided into two age and sex matched groups. Group I included 25 patients without significant MR following PBMV [vena contract area (VCA) <0.4cm2], while group II included 12 patients with significant MR after PBMV [VCA ≥0.4cm2]. Both groups were comparable in terms of TEE data, Wilkins score for favorability of PBMV and baseline hemodynamics.

RESULTS

Data from MVQ showed that both groups were comparable (p>0.05) in terms of MV annulus quantification (Anteroposterior diameter, annular sphericity, 3D area and height), MV scallops (A1, A2, A3, P1, P2 and P3) areas, as well as A1 and A2 tenting volumes. However, we recorded significant differences between the two groups as regard total MV, A2, P2 and P3 tenting volumes (p<0.05) and tenting height (p=0.03), as well as A2, A3 and P2 prolapse volumes (p<0.05). Moreover, our data showed a significant difference between both groups in terms of MV coaptation heights (p=0.01), but not in anterior coaptation length (p=0.13).

CONCLUSION

Mitral valve quantification through 3D-TEE is a simple automated method, easily applicable to patients before PBMV. Moreover, MVQ-derived data, such as MV scallops' tenting and prolapse volumes, coaptation heights, and exposed and total A2 lengths may predict the possibility of significant MR after PBMV.

Impact of left atrial compliance improvement on functional status after percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty

BACKGROUND

Conventional hemodynamic parameters may not accurately predict symptomatic improvement after percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV). Changes in left heart chamber compliance following adequate relief o0066 mitral stenosis (MS) may be useful in determining functional capacity after PMV. This study aims to determine the acute effects of PMV on compliance of the left heart and whether its changes relate to the patient's functional capacity.

METHODS

One-hundred thirty-seven patients with severe MS undergoing PMV were enrolled. Left atrial (C_a ) and left ventricular (C_v ) compliance were invasively estimated and net atrioventricular compliance (C_av ) was calculated before and immediately after the procedure. B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were obtained before and 24 hr after the procedure. The primary endpoint was functional status at 6-month follow-up, and the secondary endpoint was a composite of death, mitral valve (MV) replacement, repeat PMV, new onset of atrial fibrillation, or stroke in patients in whom PMV was successful.

RESULTS

The mean age was 43 ± 12 years, and 119 patients were female (87%). After PMV, C_a and C_av improved significantly from 5.3 [IQR 3.2-8.2] mL/mmHg to 8.7 [5.3-19.2] mL/mmHg (P < 0.001) and 2.2 [1.6-3.4] to 2.8 [2.1-4.1] mL/mmHg (P < 0.001), respectively, whereas C_v did not change (4.6 [3.2-6.8] to 4.4 [3.1-5.6]; P = 0.637). Plasma BNP levels significantly decreased after PMV, with no correlation between its variation and changes in left chamber compliance. At 6-month follow-up, NYHA functional class remained unchanged in 32 patients (23%). By multivariable analyses, changes in C_a immediately after PMV (adjusted OR 1.42; 95% CI 95% 1.02 to 1.97; P = 0.037) and younger age (adjusted OR 0.95; CI 95% 0.92-0.98; P = 0.004), predicted improvement in functional capacity at 6-month follow-up, independent of postprocedural data. The secondary endpoint were predicted by post-PMV mean gradient (adjusted HR 1.363; 95% CI 95% 1.027-1.809; P = 0.032), and lack of functional improvement at 6-month follow-up (adjusted HR 4.959; 95% 1.708-14.403; P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

C_a and C_av increase significantly after PMV with no change in C_v . The improvement of C_a is an important predictor of functional status at 6-month follow up, independently of other hemodynamic data. Postprocedural mean gradient and lack of short-term symptomatic improvement were predictors of adverse outcome.

Impact of percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty on left ventricular function in patients with mitral stenosis assessed by 3D echocardiography

BACKGROUND

The status of intrinsic left ventricular (LV) contractility in patients with isolated rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) has been debated. The acute changes in loading conditions after percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) may affect LV performance. We aimed to examine the acute effects of PMV on LV function and identify factors associated with LV ejection fraction (LVEF) changes, and determinants of long-term events following the procedure.

METHODS

One hundred and forty-two patients who underwent PMV for symptomatic rheumatic MS (valve area of 0.99±0.3cm²) were prospectively enrolled. LV volumes and LVEF were measured by three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography. Long-term outcome was a composite endpoint of death, mitral valve (MV) replacement, repeat PMV, new onset of atrial fibrillation, and stroke.

RESULTS

The mean age was 42.3±12.1years, and 125 patients were women (88%). After PMV, LVEF increased significantly (51.4 vs 56.5%, p<0.001), primary due to a significant increase in LV end-diastolic volume (65.8mL vs 67.9mL, p=0.002), and resultant increase in the stroke volume (33.9mL vs 39.6mL, p<0.001). Changes in cardiac index and systolic pulmonary artery pressure were associated with LVEF changes after PMV. During a mean follow-up period of 30.8months, 28 adverse clinical events were observed. Postprocedural mitral regurgitation, MV area, and mean gradient were independent predictors of composite endpoints.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with rheumatic MS, PMV resulted in a significant improvement in LV end-diastolic volume, stroke volume and consequently increased in LVEF. Changes in cardiac index and systolic pulmonary artery pressure were associated with LVEF changes after PMV. The predictors of long-term adverse events following PMV were post-procedural variables, including mitral regurgitation, valve area, and mean gradient.

Echocardiographic parameters for assessing successful balloon mitral valvuloplasty in juvenile age groups

BACKGROUND

Different echocardiographic parameters have been studied and validated for assessing the severity of mitral stenosis; however, scant data are available for these markers in the context of balloon mitral valvuloplasty in juvenile age groups (ages ⩽20 years).

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to find out the utility of echocardiographic parameters such as mitral valve separation index, left atrial volume, right ventricular systolic pressure, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, tricuspid annular systolic velocity, and right ventricular Tei index in predicting success of balloon mitral valvuloplasty and their relation to mitral valve area in juvenile mitral stenosis.

METHODS

We carried out a prospective single-centre study involving 52 juvenile mitral stenosis patients undergoing elective valvuloplasty. Success was defined as an increase in mitral valve area ⩾50% or ⩾1.5 cm2. Echocardiographic measurements were taken before and 24 hours after the procedure and statistical analyses were carried out.

RESULTS

The mean age of the study population was 14.3 years (SD ±4.55), ranging from 7 to 20 years. Valvuloplasty was successful in 49 out of 52 patients. The mean valve area improved from 0.89 (SD ±0.16) to 1.73 (SD ±0.22) cm2/m2 (p<0.01), and the mean mitral valve gradient decreased from 19.87 (SD ±7.89) to 7.45 (SD ±2.07) (p=0.021). All the surrogate parameters improved favourably after valvuloplasty (p<0.01). The decrease in right ventricular systolic pressure was a better indicator of the success followed by the increase in valve separation index (area under the curve 0.81 and 0.76, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

All the surrogate markers studied showed favourable improvement, and right ventricular systolic pressure reduction and improved mitral valve separation index were better indicators of successful valvuloplasty.

Pathology of Severe Mitral Regurgitation following Balloon Valvuloplasty

This study assessed the mechanism of acute mitral regurgitation following balloon mitral valvuloplasty for the treatment of symptomatic mitral stenosis. We studied 25 patients who required mitral valve replacement for severe mitral regurgitation following balloon mitral valvuloplasty. All the mitral valves studied had features of severe mitral stenosis. Radial tear of the mitral leaflet was responsible for mitral regurgitation in 18 (72%) cases. Of these, 16 involved the anterior mitral leaflet and in 2 cases the posterior mitral leaflet was torn. Three patients (12%) had chordal rupture, whereas in 4 (16%) patients pseudo-orifices were formed. All the excised mitral valves showed significant subvalvular deformity which was underestimated in prevalvuloplasty echocardiography. No other factor was found to be associated with disruption of the valve. Hence, we conclude that cusp deformity and subvalvular pathology are responsible for faulty transmission of forces and improper engagement of the balloon, resulting in disruption of the valvular apparatus. The incidence of severe mitral regurgitation following balloon mitral valvuloplasty might be decreased by appropriate prevalvuloplasty assessment and patient selection.

Balloon mitral valvuloplasty in the United States: a 13-year perspective

BACKGROUND

Incidence and prevalence of mitral stenosis is declining in the US. We performed this study to determine recent trends in utilization, complications, mortality, length of stay, and cost associated with balloon mitral valvuloplasty.

METHODS

Utilizing the nationwide inpatient sample database from 1998 to 2010, we identified patients using the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification procedure code for "percutaneous valvuloplasty." Patients ≥18 years of age with mitral stenosis were included. Patients with concomitant aortic, tricuspid, or pulmonic stenosis were excluded. Primary outcome included death and procedural complications.

RESULTS

A total of 1308 balloon mitral valvuloplasties (weighted n = 6540) were analyzed. There was a 7.5% decrease in utilization of the procedure from 24.6 procedures/10 million population in 1998-2001 to 22.7 procedures/10 million population in 2008-2010 (P for trend = .098). We observed a 15.9% overall procedural complication rate and 1.7% mortality rate. The procedural complication rates have increased in recent years (P = .001), corresponding to increasing age and burden of comorbidities in patients. The mean cost per admission for balloon mitral valvuloplasty has gone up significantly over the 10 years, from $11,668 ± 1046 in 2001 to $23,651 ± 301 in 2010 (P <.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large cross-sectional study of balloon mitral valvuloplasty in the US, we have reported trends of decreasing overall utilization and increasing procedural complication rates and cost over a period of 13 years.

Predictors of successful percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy using the Bonhoeffer Multi-Track system in patients with moderate to severe mitral stenosis: Can we see beyond the Wilkins score?

Objective

To know the predictors of a successful outcome of percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy (PTMC) other than described in the Wilkins scoring system.

Methods

Two hundred fifty-eight consecutive patients were enrolled for this observational study in a tertiary care heart center of Pakistan who had a Wilkins score of ≤8. Patients with more than mild mitral regurgitation (MR) or having a clot in the left atrium were excluded. The Bonhoeffer multi-track system was used as a default technique. Successful PTMC was defined as achieving a mitral valve area (MVA) of ≥1.5 cm² with no more than mild MR.

Results

Out of 258 PTMC procedures, 197 were successful. The Bonhoeffer multi-track system was used in ~94% cases. Among unsuccessful procedures, 41 patients did not achieve the required valve area, and 21 patients developed more than mild MR, including those 8 patients who did not achieve the required valve area and had more than mild MR. Bigger mean annulus size (33.5±2.6 versus 32.8±2.1 mm; p=0.02) and pre-procedure MVA (0.93±0.1 versus 0.87±0.1 cm²; p=0.002) had a significant effect on successful PTMC. Lower mean preprocedure systolic right ventricular pressure on echo (65.4±19.4 versus 75.3±18 mm Hg; p=0.000) and on cath (74±21.5 versus 81.5±24.6 mm Hg; p=0.002), lower grade of left ventricular dysfunction (p=0.04), and tricuspid regurgitation on echo (p=0.003) also had positive effects on the outcome.

Conclusion

Bigger preprocedure mitral valve annulus size and mitral valve area, and better left and right ventricular hemodynamics are correlated with successful PTMC.

The echo score revisited: Impact of incorporating commissural morphology and leaflet displacement to the prediction of outcome for patients undergoing percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty

BACKGROUND

Current echocardiographic scoring systems for percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) have limitations. This study examined new, more quantitative methods for assessing valvular involvement and the combination of parameters that best predicts immediate and long-term outcome after PMV.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Two cohorts (derivation n=204 and validation n=121) of patients with symptomatic mitral stenosis undergoing PMV were studied. Mitral valve morphology was assessed by using both the conventional Wilkins qualitative parameters and novel quantitative parameters, including the ratio between the commissural areas and the maximal excursion of the leaflets from the annulus in diastole. Independent predictors of outcome were assigned a points value proportional to their regression coefficients: mitral valve area ≤1 cm(2) (2), maximum leaflets displacement ≤12 mm (3), commissural area ratio ≥1.25 (3), and subvalvular involvement (3). Three risk groups were defined: low (score of 0-3), intermediate (score of 5), and high (score of 6-11) with observed suboptimal PMV results of 16.9%, 56.3%, and 73.8%, respectively. The use of the same scoring system in the validation cohort yielded suboptimal PMV results of 11.8%, 72.7%, and 87.5% in the low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups, respectively. The model improved risk classification in comparison with the Wilkins score (net reclassification improvement 45.2%; P<0.0001). Long-term outcome was predicted by age and postprocedural variables, including mitral regurgitation, mean gradient, and pulmonary pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

A scoring system incorporating new quantitative echocardiographic parameters more accurately predicts outcome following PMV than existing models. Long-term post-PMV event-free survival was predicted by age, degree of mitral regurgitation, and postprocedural hemodynamic data.

Effect of elevated pulmonary vascular resistance on outcomes after percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty

Patients with mitral stenosis with severe pulmonary hypertension constitute a high-risk subset for surgical commissurotomy or valve replacement. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of elevated pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) on percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) procedural success, short- and long-term clinical outcomes (i.e., mortality, mitral valve surgery, and redo PMV) in 926 patients. Of the 926 patients, 263 (28.4%) had PVR ≥4 Woods units (WU) and 663 (71.6%) had PVR <4 WU. Patients with PVR ≥4 WU were older and more symptomatic and had worse valve morphology for PMV. The patients with PVR ≥4 WU also had lower PMV procedural success than those with PVR <4 WU (78.2% vs 85.6%, p = 0.006). However, after multivariate adjustment, PVR was no longer an independent predictor of PMV success nor an independent predictor of the combined end point at a median follow-up of 3.2 years. In conclusion, elevated PVR at PMV is not an independent predictor of procedural success or long-term outcomes. Therefore, appropriately selected patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis might benefit from PMV, even in the presence of elevated preprocedural PVR.

Incidence and predictors of atrial septal defect after percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy - a transesophageal echocardiographic study of 209 cases

BACKGROUND

The incidence of atrial septal defect (ASD) after percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy (PTMC) ranges from 15.2% to 92% in small studies.

AIM

To estimate the incidence of atrial septal defect (ASD) following PTMC and to determine the factors contributing to its development.

METHODS

We studied 209 patients with mitral stenosis (MS) undergoing PTMC. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) with color Doppler examination was performed to detect ASD.

RESULTS

TEE demonstrated ASD in 139 (66.5%) of 209 patients. The mean diameter of the interatrial septal defect detected by TEE was 4.47 ± 1.7 mm. The most common site of septal puncture was the inferior vena caval side of the interatrial septum followed by fossa ovalis. Color flow imaging across the defect showed left to right shunting in all the patients (100%). We examined the relationship of age, Wilkins score, left atrial volumes, the mitral valve orifice area, mitral valve gradient, and the degree of mitral and tricuspid regurgitation between the group that developed ASD and the group without ASD and found that none of these factors predicted the development of ASD. A residual ASD was seen in 11 patients (8.7%) at 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Incidence of residual atrial septal defect immediately following PTMC by TEE color flow Doppler imaging is 66.5%. Surrogate markers of elevated left atrial pressures do not determine the development of atrial septal defect after PTMC. The majority of the defects close spontaneously and a residual defect is observed in 8.7% patients at 6 months.

Immediate and long-term results following balloon mitral valvotomy in patients with atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of atrial fibrillation (AF) on the immediate and long-term outcome of patients undergoing balloon mitral valvotomy (BMV).

HYPOTHESIS

Patients with atrial fibrillation fair poorly after balloon mitral valvotomy.

METHODS

There were a total of 818 consecutive patients who underwent elective BMV in this institute from 1997 to 2003, with either double-lumen or triple-lumen BMV catheters included in the study. Of them, 95 were with AF. The clinical, echocardiographic, and hemodynamic data of these patients were compared with those of 723 patients in normal sinus rhythm (NSR). Immediate procedural results and long-term events were compared between the 2 study groups.

RESULTS

Patients with AF were older (39.9 ± 9.9 years vs 29.4 ± 10.1, P < 0.001) and presented more frequently with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III-IV (53.7% vs 32.9%, P < 0.001), echocardiographic score >8 (47.4% vs 24.9%, P < 0.001), and with history of previous surgical commissurotomy (33.7% vs 11.5%, P < 0.001). In patients with AF, BMV resulted in inferior immediate and long-term outcomes, as reflected in a lesser post-BMV mitral valve area (1.3 ± 0.4 vs 1.6 ± 0.4 cm(2), P = 0.032) and higher event rate on follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with AF were older, sicker, and had advanced rheumatic mitral valve disease. They had a higher incidence of stroke, new onset heart failure, and need for reinterventions on long-term follow-up. These patients need intense and more frequent follow-up.

Percutaneous Mitral Balloon Valvuloplasty for Patients with Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis

Percutaneous balloon dilatation of stenotic cardiac valves is used for the treatment of pulmonic, mitral, aortic, and tricuspid stenosis. Percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMV) has been used successfully as an alternative to open or closed surgical mitral commissurotomy in the treatment of symptomatic rheumatic mitral stenosis. PMV produces good immediate hemodynamic outcome, low complication rates, and clinical improvement in the majority of patients. PMV is safe and effective and provides clinical and hemodynamic improvement in rheumatic mitral stenosis. PMV is the preferred form of therapy for relief of mitral stenosis for a selected group of patients with symptomatic mitral stenosis.

Predictors of developing significant mitral regurgitation following percutaneous mitral commissurotomy with inoue balloon technique

Background. Despite the high technical expertise in percutaneous mitral commissurotomy (PMC), mitral regurgitation (MR) remains a major procedure-related complication. The aim of this work is to find out the most sensitive and applicable predictors of development of significant mitral regurgitation (SMR) following percutaneous mitral commissurotomy using Inoue balloon technique. Methods. We studied prospectively the preprocedural (clinical, echocardiography, and hemodynamic) and procedural predictors of significant mitral regurgitation (identified as increase of ≥2/4 grades of pre-PMC MR by color Doppler flow mapping) following valvuloplasty using Inoue balloon in 108 consecutive patients with severe mitral stenosis. Multiple stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed for variables found positive on univariate analysis to determine the most important predictor(s) of developing SMR. Results. The incidence of SMR following PMC using Inoue technique was 18.5% (10 patients). MV scoring systems were the only variables that showed significant differences between both groups (Group A without SMR and Group B with SMR). However, no clinical, other echocardiographic measurements, hemodynamic or procedural variables could predict the development of SMR. Using multiple regression analysis, the best predictive factor for the risk of SMR after Inoue BMV was the total MR-echo score with a cutoff point of 7 and a predictive percentage of 97.7%. Conclusions. The total MR-echo score is the only independent predictor of SMR following PMC using Inoue technique with a cutoff point of 7.

Repeat percutaneous balloon mitral valvotomy vs. mitral valve replacement in patients with restenosis after previous balloon mitral valvotomy and unfavorable valve characteristics

BACKGROUND

Symptomatic mitral restenosis develops in up to 21% of patients after percutaneous balloon mitral valvotomy (PBMV), and most of these patients undergo mitral valve replacement (MVR).

HYPOTHESIS

Repeating PBMV (re-PBMV) might be an effective and less-invasive treatment for these patients.

METHODS

Forty-seven patients with post-PBMV mitral restenosis and unfavorable valve characteristics were assigned either to re-PBMV (25 cases; mean age 40.7 ± 11 y, 76% female) or MVR (22 cases; mean age 47 ± 10 y, 69% female) at 51 ± 33 months after the prior PBMV. The mean follow-up was 41 ± 32 months and 63 ± 30 months for the re-PBMV and MVR groups, respectively.

RESULTS

The 2 groups were homogenous in preoperative variables such as gender, echocardiographic findings, and valve characteristics. Patients in the MVR group were older, with a higher mean New York Heart Association functional class, mean mitral valve area, mitral regurgitation grade, and right ventricular systolic pressure (P = 0.03), and more commonly were in AF. There were 3 in-hospital deaths (all in the MVR group) and 4 during follow-up (3 in the MVR group and 1 in the re-PBMV group). Ten-year survival was significantly higher in re-PBMV vs MVR (96% vs. 72.7%, P<0.05), but event-free survival was similar (52% vs. 50%, P = 1.0) due to high reintervention in the re-PBMV group (48% vs. 18.1%, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

In a population with predominantly unfavorable characteristics for PBMV, short- and long-term outcomes are both reasonable after re-PBMV with less mortality but requiring more reinterventions compared with MVR.

Removal of broken balloon mitral valvotomy coiled guidewire from giant left atrium using indigenous snare

Balloon mitral valvotomy (BMV) is a safe and effective therapy for rheumatic mitral stenosis. During the procedure, the coiled portion of 0.025 in. stainless steel BMV guidewire broke off within the giant left atrium (LA). Attempts to retrieve the guidewire with various snares failed as it was moving freely within the voluminous LA. We describe a technique wherein the broken guidewire was retrieved with a snare made of 0.014 in. percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty guidewire. The mechanism and prevention of this complication and management options are discussed.

Impact of pre- and postprocedural mitral regurgitation on outcomes after percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty for mitral stenosis

Percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) is an effective therapy in patients with significant mitral stenosis. Few studies have examined the effect of mitral regurgitation (MR), a frequent periprocedural finding, on PMV outcomes. We examined the effects of pre- and postprocedural MR after PMV. Contrast left ventriculography was performed before and after PMV, and the MR severity was assessed using Sellers' classification. Clinical, hemodynamic, and morphologic variables were collected for all patients. Consecutive patients (n = 876) undergoing a first PMV procedure at a single tertiary center were evaluated. An increasing preprocedural MR severity was associated with reduced PMV success (no MR, 75%; 1+ MR, 65%; 2+ MR, 44%; p <0.0001), increased in-hospital mortality (0.6% vs 2.8% vs 4.9%, respectively; p = 0.007), and other complications. Increasing grades of pre- and postprocedural MR predicted, independently and in a grade-dependent manner, the composite outcome of mortality, mitral valve surgery, or redo PMV (preprocedural MR >or=1+, relative risk [RR] 1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2 to 1.8; preprocedural MR >or=2+, RR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.4; postprocedural MR >or=1+, RR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2 to 2.0; postprocedural MR >or=2+, RR 2.2, 95% CI 1.7 to 2.7; and postprocedural MR >or=3+, RR 4.6, 95% CI 3.4 to 6.2, respectively). In conclusion, increasing pre- and postprocedural MR grades independently predicted the long-term clinical outcomes after PMV. Patients with moderate preprocedural MR, in particular, appeared to have suboptimal short- and long-term outcomes, necessitating careful monitoring and early referral for mitral valve surgery, when appropriate.

Predicting success and long-term outcomes of percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty: a multifactorial score

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) success depends on appropriate patient selection. A multifactorial score derived from clinical, anatomic/echocardiographic, and hemodynamic variables would predict procedural success and clinical outcome.

METHODS

Demographic data, echocardiographic parameters (including echocardiographic score), and procedure-related variables were recorded in 1085 consecutive PMVs. Long-term clinical follow-up (death, mitral valve replacement, redo PMV) was performed. Multivariate regression analysis of the first 800 procedures was performed to identify independent predictors of procedural success. Significant variables were formulated into a risk score and validated prospectively.

RESULTS

Six independent predictors of PMV success were identified: age less than 55 years, New York Heart Association classes I and II, pre-PMV mitral area of 1 cm(2) or greater, pre-PMV mitral regurgitation grade less than 2, echocardiographic score of 8 or greater, and male sex. A score was constructed from the arithmetic sum of variables present per patient. Procedural success rates increased incrementally with increasing score (0% for 0/6, 39.7% for 1/6, 54.4% for 2/6, 77.3% for 3/6, 85.7% for 4/6, 95% for 5/6, and 100% for 6/6; P < .001). In a validation cohort (n = 285 procedures), the multifactorial score remained a significant predictor of PMV success (P < .001). Comparison between the new score and the echocardiographic score confirmed that the new index was more sensitive and specific (P < .001). This new score also predicts long-term outcomes (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Clinical, anatomic, and hemodynamic variables predict PMV success and clinical outcome and may be formulated in a scoring system that would help to identify the best candidates for PMV.

Can a novel echocardiographic score better predict outcome after percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty?

OBJECTIVE

The assessment of patients with mitral stenosis before percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV) is crucial to predict outcome after the procedure. We tried to explore the prognostic power of a novel echocardiographic score to predict immediate postprocedural outcome in comparison to the standard score.

METHODS

We enrolled 50 consecutive patients with moderate to severe mitral stenosis admitted to undergo PBMV. For all patients, we assessed both the standard Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) score and a novel score based on calcification (especially commissural) and subvalvular involvement. Patients underwent PBMV with the double balloon technique. Thereafter, patients were classified into two groups: group 1 (poor outcome) defined as no procedural success and/or increase of MR by more than 1 grade and group 2 (optimal outcome) defined as procedural success with increase of MR by 1 grade or less.

RESULTS

The total MGH score did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, among the individual parameters of the score, both calcification and subvalvular affection were significantly higher in group 1 versus group 2 (2.8 +/- 0.4 versus 1.7 +/- 0.8, and 2.4 +/- 0.5 versus 1.6 +/- 0.4, respectively, P < 0.01 for both). The total novel score and its two individual parameters (calcification and subvalvular involvement) were all significantly higher in group 1 versus group 2 (6 +/- 1.5 versus 2.9 +/- 1.9, 4.9 +/- 1.2 versus 2.4 +/- 1.5, 1.5 +/- 1.6 versus 0.5 +/- 0.9, respectively, P < 0.01 for all). Multivariate analysis demonstrated the novel score to be the only independent predictor of poor outcome.

CONCLUSION

The novel score is more reliable and correlates with outcome better than the standard score.

Percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty in patients with low cardiac output at high surgical risk

Among 1146 patients undergoing percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty for symptomatic mitral stenosis, 8 (4 men and women) were at high risk for surgery on the basis of the New York Heart Association functional class IV (n=8), severe pulmonary hypertension (n=5). All these patients aged 30+/-23.6 years had signs of right heart failure, high echocardiographic score (9.6+/-3.6) and low mitral valve area (0.50+/-0.19 cm(2)). The procedure resulted in an increase in mitral valve area (1.55+/-0.17 cm(2)) with a concomitant reduction in pulmonary artery systolic pressure (58.7+/-9.9 mm Hg) and decrease in tricuspid regurgitation. At follow-up (mean 14+/-3 months), one patient with renal failure... presented with a mitral restenosis is scheduled for mitral valve replacement, two patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation required tricuspid annuloplasty. In conclusion, percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty is feasible and safe in patients at high surgical risk and can be considered as an acceptable alternative to surgery.

Impact of concomitant aortic regurgitation on percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty: Immediate results, short-term, and long-term outcome

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study is to examine the effect of concomitant aortic regurgitation (AR) on percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) procedural success, short-term, and long-term clinical outcome. No large-scale study has explored the impact of coexistent AR on PMV procedural success and outcome.

METHODS

Demographic, echocardiographic, and procedure-related variables were recorded in 644 consecutive patients undergoing 676 PMV at a single center. Mortality, aortic valve surgery (replacement or repair) (AVR), mitral valve surgery (MVR), and redo PMV were recorded during follow-up.

RESULTS

Of the 676 procedures performed, 361 (53.4%) had no AR, 287 (42.5%) mild AR, and 28 (4.1%) moderate AR. There were no differences between groups in the preprocedure characteristics, procedural success, or in the incidence of inhospital adverse events. At a median follow-up of 4.11 years, there was no difference in the overall survival rate (P = .22), MVR rate (P = .69), or redo PMV incidence (P = .33). The rate of AVR was higher in the moderate AR group (0.9% vs 1.9% vs 13%, P = .003). Mean time to AVR was 4.5 years and did not differ significantly between patients with no AR, mild AR, or moderate AR (2.9 +/- 2.1 vs 5.7 +/- 3.6 vs 4.1 +/- 2.5 years, P = .46).

CONCLUSIONS

Concomitant AR at the time of PMV does not influence procedural success and is not associated with inferior outcome. A minority of patients with MS and moderate AR who undergo PMV will require subsequent AVR on long-term follow-up. Thus, patients with rheumatic MS and mild to moderate AR remain good candidates for PMV.

Comparison of long-term outcome after mitral valve replacement or repeated balloon mitral valvotomy in patients with restenosis after previous balloon valvotomy

Symptomatic mitral stenosis (MS) develops in 7% to 21% of patients after percutaneous mitral balloon valvotomy (PMV). Treatment options for these patients are surgical mitral valve replacement (MVR) or repeated PMV. However, no comparisons were made between these 2 procedures regarding long-term outcome. This retrospective study compares the long-term outcome of 888 patients with symptomatic MS after MVR or repeated PMV who underwent PMV from April 1988 to December 2003. Thirty-two patients subsequently underwent repeated PMV, and 59 patients underwent MVR for symptomatic MS. Mean follow-up was 85 +/- 43 months with a maximum follow-up of 15 years. Patients with MVR have more unfavorable clinical characteristics, including a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation and severe mitral regurgitation. Event-free survival was similar between the 2 groups up to 40 months after the procedure; 3-year event-free survival rates were 96.6% for MVR patients and 90.0% for repeated PMV patients (p = 0.215). However, after 40 months, the outcome was more favorable for MVR. Comparing MVR versus PMV, 6-year event-free survival rates were 93.0% versus 75.9% (p = 0.036), and 9-year event-free survival rates were 90.4% versus 36.0% (p <0.001). In conclusion, the long-term outcome of patients with symptomatic MS after previous PMV was more favorable after MVR than after repeated PMV. These data suggest that MVR may be the preferred mode of therapy in patients with unfavorable valve morphologic characteristics and no co-morbid disease.

Percutaneous Transcatheter Repair for Mitral Regurgitation

Percutaneous mitral valve repair for patients with mitral regurgitation is emerging as an exciting new area in interventional cardiology. Because of the complex etiologies of mitral regurgitation, multiple technologies are being tested in preclinical and clinical settings to evaluate their efficacy and safety. Direct percutaneous repair of the mitral valve is undergoing Phase II and Phase I trials using the Evalve mitral clip and Edwards mitral suture devices, respectively. Devices placed in the coronary sinus might be applicable for specific patient populations where the mitral annulus and coronary sinus have favorable anatomic relationships. Other devices employ intra-atrial or intra-ventricular approaches to the mitral annulus to move the posterior annulus forward and thereby improve mitral valve coaptation. How many of these new techniques will ultimately be successful for clinical use will depend on the results of ongoing clinical trials.

Immediate and long-term follow-up of percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty in pregnant patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis

Percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMV) can be performed during pregnancy without significant maternal risk or fetal morbidity or mortality. However, little is known about long-term follow-up results after PMV in populations of pregnant women. Thus, the present study was undertaken to determine the immediate and long-term outcomes after PMV in a large cohort of pregnant patients with severe mitral stenosis. The patient population consisted of 71 consecutive pregnant women with severe rheumatic mitral stenosis admitted to the hospital with severe congestive heart failure (New York Heart Association class III and IV) for PMV. All patients underwent clinical and obstetric evaluations, electrocardiography, and 2-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography. PMV was successful in all patients, resulting in a significant increase in mitral valve area from 0.9 +/- 0.2 to 2.0 +/- 0.3 cm2 (p <0.001). At the end of pregnancy, 98% of the patients were in New York Heart Association functional class I or II. At a mean follow-up of 44 +/- 31 months, the total event-free survival rate was 54%. The mean gestational age at delivery time was 38 +/- 1 weeks. Preterm deliveries occurred in 9 patients (13%), including 2 twin pregnancies. The remaining 66 of 75 newborns (88%) had normal weight (mean 2.8 +/- 0.6 kg) at delivery. At long-term follow-up of 44 +/- 31 months after birth, the 66 children exhibited normal growth and development and did not show any clinical abnormalities. In conclusion, PMV is safe and effective, has a low morbidity and mortality rate for the mother and the fetus, and has favorable long-term results in pregnant women with rheumatic mitral stenosis in New York Heart Association functional class III or IV.

Immediate and late outcomes of patients undergoing transseptal left-sided heart catheterization for symptomatic valvular and arrhythmic diseases

BACKGROUND

The transseptal technique has been widely used for diagnostic and therapeutic left-sided heart catheterization. However, its differential immediate and late outcomes among patients with various valvular and arrhythmic diseases are not yet determined.

METHODS

Beginning from 1993, all patients undergoing transseptal procedures were screened and categorized into diagnosis, arrhythmia, and valvuloplasty groups according to the purposes of the catheterization. Incidences of transseptum-related acute major events (cardiac perforation, embolic stroke, and bradyarrhythmia during the procedure) and late complications (residual atrial septal defect [ASD], embolic stroke, bradyarrhythmia, and death up to 18 months) were analyzed and compared between groups.

RESULTS

From January 1993 to May 2003, a total of 176 patients underwent 184 transseptal procedures for diagnosis of valvular heart diseases (n = 8), catheter ablation of arrhythmogenic foci (n = 29), and mitral valvuloplasty (n = 147). The immediate outcome was similar among the 3 groups, with an overall acute complication incidence of 3.8%. At follow-up, the incidences of bradyarrhythmia, embolic stroke, and death were not different among the 3 groups. Patients undergoing valvuloplasty had a significantly higher prevalence of residual ASD, especially for those with more severe mitral stenosis and less valvuloplasty success. However, presence of ASD did not impose disadvantage over the 1.5-year prognosis.

CONCLUSION

Transseptal left-sided heart catheterization can be safely applied to patients with different categories of cardiac diseases with comparably good immediate and late outcomes. Although patients undergoing percutaneous valvuloplasty have a higher chance of permanent ASD creation, their prognosis is not influenced.

The Impact of Age in the Immediate and Long-Term Outcomes of Percutaneous Mitral Balloon Valvuloplasty

BACKGROUND

Differences in age, clinical characteristics, and valve morphology may account for controversial results of percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMV).

METHODS

We have previously reported the immediate and long-term clinical follow-up (50 +/- 45 months) of 879 patients who underwent PMV at the Massachusetts General Hospital. In the present study, we used this database to determine the impact of age in the immediate and long-term outcome of PMV. For purpose of analysis, these patients were divided into four age groups: group 1 (< or =35 years), group 2 (36-55 years), group 3 (56-75 years), and group 4 (>75 years).

RESULTS

The incidence of atrial fibrillation, calcified valves under fluoroscopy, higher echocardiographic score, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class IV and pre-PMV mitral regurgitation (MR) increased with patient's age. As patients became older, a lower post-PMV mitral valve area (2.1 +/- 0.7, 2.0 +/- 0.6, 1.8 +/- 0.6, and 1.6 +/- 0.6; P < 0.0001) and progressive decrease in procedural success (81.4%, 80.5%, 65.3%, and 53%; P < 0.0001) were observed. Younger age was identified as an independent predictor of PMV success by multiple stepwise logistic regression (odds ratio [OR]: 3.33; confidence interval [CI]: 1.41-7.69, P = 0.006). Furthermore, age was identified as an independent predictor of long-term events by Cox regression analysis (risk ratio [RR]: 1.02; CI: 1.01-1.03, P < 0.00001). However, the effect of age seemed to be blunted by the morphology of the valve at follow-up, as patients with echocardiogram score >8 in groups 2, 3, and 4 presented similar combined event-free survival (death, mitral valve replacement, or redo PMV).

CONCLUSION

Age is an important predictor of immediate and long-term outcomes after PMV, particularly in patients with optimal mitral valve morphology. (

Percutaneous approaches to valvular heart disease

Percutaneous endovascular therapy has now become a reality. From early balloon valvotomy for valvular stenosis, technologies have been developed that allow percutaneous replacement of pulmonic and aortic valves and repair of regurgitant mitral valves in selected patients. Following extensive investigations in animals, early clinical reports have shown successes in selected patients. As criteria for patient selection and clinical safety and efficacy trials progress, the role of these new technologies in patient care strategy will become better understood.

Initial clinical experience with intracardiac echocardiography in guiding balloon mitral valvuloplasty: technique, safety, utility, and limitations

The objective of this study was to examine the feasibility and technique of intracardiac echocardiography during percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty. Echocardiographic imaging is commonly used during mitral valvuloplasty. Intracardiac echocardiography is a newer technology that may provide superior imaging during complex valvular interventions. Intracardiac echocardiography and transthoracic echocardiography were performed in 19 patients undergoing percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty. Intracardiac ultrasound images were obtained via the femoral vein in all patients. Imaging projections and catheter locations that were useful for the performance of mitral valvuloplasty were defined. Intracardiac echocardiography guided transseptal puncture, augmented the assessment of valve apparatus deformity, facilitated balloon positioning across the mitral valve, and permitted postprocedural valvular assessment including identification of mitral regurgitation with color Doppler. Intracardiac echocardiography provided essential imaging guidance and procedural monitoring during percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty.

Outcome of significant functional tricuspid regurgitation after percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty

BACKGROUND

The outcome of significant functional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) associated with mitral stenosis (MS) after percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PMV) remains to be clarified.

METHODS

From 265 patients who underwent PMV at our institution from 1995 to 2000 and who were regularly observed, we selected 71 patients (55 women, mean age 43 +/- 11 years) who showed significant moderate to severe functional TR before PMV. We analyzed data from the echocardiograms performed before, 24 hours after, and long after the intervention (29 +/- 12 months) and analyzed clinical outcomes. Resolution of TR was defined as trace or mild TR on the follow-up color Doppler study.

RESULTS

Patients with moderate to severe TR showed more severe MS and pulmonary hypertension and more atrial fibrillation than patients with less than moderate TR. TR was resolved on the follow-up echocardiography in 23 of the 71 patients with significant TR before PMV (32%). The TR jet area before PMV (P <.05) and the late decrement of peak transmitral pressure gradient (P <.01) were independent determinants of resolution. TR was resolved in only 6.7% of patients (1/15) with an unsuccessful long-term PMV result, but was resolved in 39% of patients (22/56) with a successful long-term result (P <.05). During the clinical follow-up period (mean length 38 +/- 20 months), 4 patients underwent open heart surgery 24 to 39 months after PMV, and there was no overall mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant functional TR was associated with more severe MS, and it could be diminished when the transmitral pressure gradient was sufficiently relieved with PMV.

Pathologic analysis of restenosis following percutaneous transluminal mitral commissurotomy

To clarify mechanisms of restenosis following percutaneous transluminal mitral commissurotomy (PTMC), we studied 253 patients (25% male) with PTMC using an Inoue balloon. Initial success (defined as either a mitral valve area >or= 1.5 cm(2) or more than twice the pre-PTMC valve area) was achieved in 95% of patients. During a mean follow-up period of 8 +/- 3 years, 12 patients underwent mitral valve replacement due to mitral valve restenosis. Visual inspection of the 12 resected valves with restenosis did not reveal fusion of the commissures. Histologically, all the resected mitral valves had evidence of end-stage rheumatic valvular disease, such as severe fibrosis and calcification. Deterioration of Wilkins echo score supported rheumatic disease progression in the leaflets and subvalvular region. Therefore, restenosis is not due to recurrence of fusion in commissures in these Japanese patients. Histologic and echocardiographic findings suggest that restenosis is based on end-stage valvular disease.

Learning curve of the Inoue technique of percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty

There is controversy as to whether the double-balloon or the Inoue technique of percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMBV) provides superior immediate and long-term results. This study was undertaken to analyze the effect of the learning curve of the Inoue technique of PMBV in the immediate and long-term outcome of PMBV. The learning curve of Inoue PMBV was analyzed in 233 Inoue PMBVs divided into 2 groups: "early experience" (n = 100) and "late experience" (n = 133). The results of the overall Inoue technique were compared with those of 659 PMBVs performed with the double-balloon technique. Baseline clinical and morphologic characteristics between early and late experience Inoue groups were similar. Post-PMBV mitral valve area (1.89 +/- 0.56 vs 1.69 +/- 0.57 cm(2); p = 0.008) and success rate (60% vs 75.9%; p = 0.009) were significantly higher in the late experience Inoue group. Furthermore, there was a trend for less incidence of severe post-PMBV mitral regurgitation > or = 3+ in the late experience group (6.8% vs 12%; p = 0.16). Although the post-PMBV mitral valve area was larger with the double-balloon technique (1.94 +/- 0.72 vs 1.81 +/- 0.58 cm(2); p = 0.01), the success rate (71.3% vs 69.1%; p = NS), incidence of > or = 3+ mitral regurgitation (9% vs 9%), in-hospital complications, and long-term and event-free survival were similar with both techniques. In conclusion, there is a significant learning curve of the Inoue technique of PMBV. Both the Inoue and the double-balloon techniques are equally effective techniques of PMBV because they resulted in similar immediate success, in-hospital adverse events, and long-term and event-free survival.

[The role of mitral valve balloon valvuloplasty in the treatment of rheumatic mitral valve stenosis during pregnancy]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the immediate results and the clinical evolution of a group of fertile age women with rheumatic mitral stenosis, in whom percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty was performed before or during pregnancy.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Eighty-one women with mitral stenosis, submitted to balloon mitral vavuloplasty, were studied. They were divided into three groups, according to their desire of no further pregnancies (group A; n = 19), pregnancy during the follow-up (group B; n = 23) or valvuloplasty was performed during pregnancy (group C; n = 39). Patients from group B and C were controlled during pregnancy, childbirth and puerperium, and the newborns of women in group C were followed from birth to the age of 5 years.

RESULTS

Mortality in the three groups was null and the incidence of miscarriage was 2 (8.6%) in group B and 3 (9.1%) in group C. Normal delivery was predominant in group B and delivery by caesarean was predominant in group B. Success was immediate in all the cases. The procedure was repeated in 3 women due to restenosis. The media valvar area rase from 0.93 to 2.05 cm2 in group A, from 1.28 to 2.04 cm2 in group B and from 0.84 to 2.14 cm2 in group C (intergroup p = NS). The functional class improved in the three groups of patients.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty is an effective, efficient method for the treatment of rheumatic mitral stenosis during pregnancy, after organogenesis, or at any time in a woman's life, as long as it is indicated according to clinical and echocardiographic evaluation criteria.