Asymmetric Calcification in Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis and Implications for Balloon Valvuloplasty

Abstract

A 50-year-old man with severe rheumatic mitral stenosis was deemed too high risk for surgery and was referred for percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty. The valvuloplasty was successful in reducing the transmitral gradient and improving the patient’s symptoms; however, it was complicated by a tear in the posteromedial commissure and moderate mitral regurgitation. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner.)

Keywords

• 3-dimensional imaging echocardiography
• imaging
• mitral valve
• rheumatic heart disease
• stenosis