PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY
VALVULOPLASTY
This new technique was implemented in 1982.
Balloon valvuloplasty was initially performed to treat stenosis of the pulmonary valve. It rapidly became the standard treatment of this condition even in neonates thanks to the development of new catheters.
Currently, neonates presenting with pulmonary valve atresia can be treated by means of a radio-frequency catheter and subsequent standard balloon dilatation.
Balloon dilatation is also commonly performed in the treatment of aortic valvular stenosis, with the possible limitation of valvular leakage which may affect the outcome. However, this technique has proven very efficient in neonates and may obviate the need for complex surgical management. Though, mitral stenosis is a rare occurrence in France, mitral commissurotomy may be required.
