Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 2, 2026

A Rodent Model of The Ross Operation: Syngeneic Pulmonary Artery Graft Implantation in A Systemic Position
11:20

A Rodent Model of The Ross Operation: Syngeneic Pulmonary Artery Graft Implantation in A Systemic Position

Published on: April 1, 2022

Balloon aortic valvoplasty in paediatric patients: progressive aortic regurgitation is common

C Balmer1, M Beghetti, M Fasnacht

  • 1Paediatric Cardiology Units of the Children's University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland. christian.balmer@kispi.unizh.ch

Heart (British Cardiac Society)
|December 17, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Balloon aortic valvoplasty is safe for congenital aortic stenosis but infants need early reintervention. Progressive aortic regurgitation is a long-term issue, unaffected by balloon size.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Interventional Cardiology
  • Congenital Heart Disease

Background:

  • Congenital aortic stenosis is a serious condition in children.
  • Balloon aortic valvoplasty is a treatment option, but its effectiveness and risks, especially regarding aortic regurgitation, require evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the immediate and midterm outcomes of balloon aortic valvoplasty in pediatric patients with congenital aortic stenosis.
  • To specifically evaluate the incidence and progression of aortic regurgitation post-procedure.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective study was conducted on 70 pediatric patients (0-16.4 years) across two tertiary referral centers.
  • Patients underwent balloon aortic valvoplasty using a mean balloon-to-annulus ratio of 0.90.
  • Outcomes measured included Doppler gradients and the degree of aortic regurgitation, with a median follow-up of 19.8 months.

Main Results:

  • Balloon aortic valvoplasty significantly reduced pressure gradients, with a mild increase at follow-up.
  • Freedom from moderate to severe aortic regurgitation was initially lower in infants (<3 months) but became comparable to older children by two years.
  • Infants (<3 months) had a significantly higher rate of reintervention compared to older children (35% vs. 80% by three years).

Conclusions:

  • Balloon aortic valvoplasty is a safe and effective treatment for pediatric congenital aortic stenosis.
  • Infants with critical aortic stenosis face a high rate of early reintervention.
  • Progressive aortic regurgitation is a significant long-term complication, and smaller balloon sizes do not appear to prevent it.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement from Autologous Pericardium with a Self-Expandable Nitinol Stent in an Adult Sheep Model05:31

Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Replacement from Autologous Pericardium with a Self-Expandable Nitinol Stent in an Adult Sheep Model

Published on: June 8, 2022

A Rabbit Aortic Valve Stenosis Model Induced by Direct Balloon Injury07:10

A Rabbit Aortic Valve Stenosis Model Induced by Direct Balloon Injury

Published on: March 31, 2023

Related Concept Videos

Mitral Regurgitation IV: Nursing Management01:28

Mitral Regurgitation IV: Nursing Management

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, leading to the backward flow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium during systole. This condition can arise from various causes, including rheumatic fever, infective endocarditis, or degenerative valve disease. Effective nursing management is crucial to optimizing patient outcomes and involves comprehensive assessment and targeted interventions.Comprehensive Patient AssessmentA detailed...
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management01:26

Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, necessitates an integrated approach for effective management. This approach includes preventative measures, medical therapy, and surgical interventions to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.PreventionPrevention of mitral stenosis primarily focuses on reducing the incidence of bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which can lead to rheumatic fever and subsequent valvular damage. Timely...
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction01:15

Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction

IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:22

Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...
Aortic Regurgitation IV: Nursing Management01:17

Aortic Regurgitation IV: Nursing Management

A nurse managing a patient with aortic regurgitation begins with a comprehensive assessment, including a review of the patient's medical history, family history, and lifestyle factors. During the cardiac examination, the nurse listens for heart sounds and checks for signs of valve abnormalities. The nurse also observes for symptoms such as dyspnea, orthopnea, and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea and assesses the patient's endurance and daily activity tolerance.Based on the findings, the nurse...