Outcomes of aortic balloon valvuloplasty in newborns: A single-centre experience

Abstract

Introduction: Critical or severe aortic stenosis in new-borns is a condition that requires rapid intervention. Aortic balloon valvuloplasty (ABV) is a method of choice that has been successfully performed since 1983. Aims: This study was conducted to explore the experiences of our centre. Study Design: The data of ABV performed on new-borns (n = 52) between 2007 and 2020 were retrospectively analysed to evaluate follow-up of the cases. Materials and Methods: Patients were divided into 4 groups according to procedural immediate results. Results: Left ventricular endocardial fibroelastosis and left ventricular systolic dysfunction were detected in 18 (34.6%) and 19 (36.5%) patients, respectively and there was a significant association between fibroelastosis and left ventricular dysfunction (P < 0.05). The preprocedural echocardiographic mean gradient was significantly lower in the unsuccessful group (P < 0.41). The mean hospital stay day was shorter in the group with optimal results without statistical significance (P = 0.055). Immediate inadequate results after the procedure were detected as a major risk for re-intervention. Re-intervention was required in one-fifth of the patients and the most common cause was aortic stenosis. The risk factors of mortality were found to be associated with the disease itself such as ventricular dysfunction, being critical aortic stenosis instead of procedural reasons. Conclusion: ABV is an effective method and as left ventricular dysfunction and critical aortic stenosis are risk factors of mortality, preprocedural evaluation, and quick intervention are essential.

Keywords

• aortic balloon valvuloplasty
• critical aortic stenosis
• new-borns