Balloon valvuloplasty for aortic stenosis using umbilical vein access in a newborn: First experience in Turkey

Abstract

Balloon valvuloplasty is an effective therapy for severe congenital aortic valve stenosis, with mild aortic insufficiency and minimal intermediate-term restenosis. No consensus currently exists regarding optimal vascular approach for balloon dilatation in newborns with critical or severe aortic valve stenosis. Critical aortic valve stenosis in newborns must be treated promptly and effectively. Transcatheter therapy may offer marked advantages, as surgical therapy has been associated with significant rates of morbidity and mortality. Percutaneous balloon dilatation is usually performed as emergent therapy of valve stenosis, with various options for vascular approach. While umbilical artery and vein access is rarely used in the treatment of critical aortic valve stenosis and aortic coarctation, this approach is a safe, simple, and effective choice for balloon dilatation in newborns, even in those weighing under 2.5 kg.