Percutaneous balloon aortic valvuloplasty as a bridge to heart transplantation

J Heart Lung Transplant. 1993 Nov-Dec;12(6 Pt 1):1062-4.

Abstract

Despite high rates of restenosis and recurrent symptoms, percutaneous aortic balloon valvuloplasty may be a useful alternative therapy to surgery in certain patients with aortic stenosis. In this case report, we describe a potentially new indication for this procedure, namely to reduce symptoms and stabilize a patient before heart transplantation. Our patient with class IV heart failure benefited from valvuloplasty with fewer symptoms and was able to be discharged while awaiting transplantation, which was successfully performed 2 months later. Percutaneous aortic balloon valvuloplasty should be considered as a palliative procedure in patients with severe aortic stenosis who are awaiting heart transplantation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aortic Valve Stenosis / complications
  • Aortic Valve Stenosis / therapy*
  • Aortic Valve*
  • Catheterization*
  • Heart Failure / complications
  • Heart Failure / surgery
  • Heart Transplantation*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Preoperative Care