Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 3, 2026

Catheter-based Endovascular Angioplasty for Fibrosing Mediastinitis-associated Pulmonary Vein Stenosis
Published on: August 26, 2025
[Congenital stenosis of pulmonary veins: long-term efficacy after intraluminal dilatation]
1Sección de Hemodinámica. Laboratorio de Cateterismo Cardíaco. Hospital Infantil La Paz. Madrid. fbenito@gmx.net
Insights
Congenital pulmonary vein stenosis in an infant was successfully treated with balloon angioplasty. The procedure significantly reduced pressure gradients and improved vein diameter, leading to long-term asymptomatic recovery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Congenital pulmonary vein stenosis is a rare condition causing significant hemodynamic compromise in infants.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing this potentially life-threatening condition.
Observation:
- A 7-month-old infant presented with congenital pulmonary vein stenosis affecting the superior left pulmonary vein.
- Cardiac catheterization revealed two distinct stenotic segments.
Findings:
- Balloon angioplasty successfully dilated the stenoses from 2 mm and 3.5 mm to 6 mm.
- Post-procedure, the pressure gradient across the stenoses decreased from 20 mmHg to 4 mmHg.
- Pulmonary artery pressure reduced from 75/35 mmHg to 44/28 mmHg.
Implications:
- Balloon angioplasty is an effective treatment for congenital pulmonary vein stenosis in infants.
- This intervention can lead to sustained clinical improvement and long-term positive outcomes.
- Successful management offers a favorable prognosis, allowing patients to remain asymptomatic into adolescence.
Abstract:
We present a 7-month-old infant diagnosed with congenital pulmonary vein stenosis. Cardiac catheterization showed two sequential stenoses of the superior left pulmonary vein and balloon angioplasty was performed. The gradient decreased from 20 to 4 mmHg and pulmonary artery pressure from 75/35 mmHg to 44/28 mmHg. The diameter of the stenoses increased from 2 and 3.5 mm, respectively, to 6 mm. Fourteen years after the procedure the patient is asymptomatic with normal cardiac examination.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
Mitral Stenosis IV: Nursing Management
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests

