Percutaneous balloon aortic valvuloplasty in the treatment of congenital valvular aortic stenosis in children

Objective To assess the effect of the balloon valvuloplasty for congenital valvular aortic stenosis (AS) in children. Methods A total of 27 (mean age 6.09 years) children with AS accepted the treatment of percutaneous balloon aortic valvuloplasty (PBAV). The ratios of balloon/valve were 0.95 +/- 0.08 for 19 cases of typical AS and 1.00 +/- 0.11 for 8 cases of hypoplastic AS. The patients were evaluated by the gradients across aotic valves in pre- and post-PBAV and by echocardiogram during the follow-up period. Results Fifteen of 19 (78.9%)cases of typical AS had a better outcome and the gradient of the remaining 4 cases (26.7%) had increased after follow-up (DeltaP > 50 mm Hg). Four of 8 (50.0%) cases of hypoplastic AS had satisfactory responses and the gradient of the remaining 3 cases (75.0%) rose. There was no moderate to severe aortic insufficiency (Al). Conclusion The balloon aortic valvuloplasty provides safe and significant hemodynamic and clinical improvement in pediatric patients. The outcome of PBAV for typical AS is better than for hypoplastic AS.