Balloon valvuloplasty for pulmonary valve stenosis.

Abstract

Balloon valvuloplasty for pulmonary valve stenosis by static dilation is the treatment of choice for the treatment of isolated valvular pulmonary stenosis in the infant, child, and adolescent. The procedure is also effective in neonates; however, the complications of the procedure are significantly higher and the efficacy is less. This article reviews the background, indications, technique, acute and long-term results, and complications of balloon valvuloplasty for pulmonary valve stenosis in the infant, child, and adolescent with pulmonary valve stenosis. The application of this technique in neonates with critical pulmonary stenosis or membranous pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum is also discussed. The determinants of a successful outcome in each group are addressed.