Mitral balloon valvuloplasty in patients >70 years of age with severe mitral stenosis

We conclude that PMBV is a suitable alternative to surgical valvotomy in a significant number of elderly patients with severely deformed mitral valves both as an initial procedure and for palliation of symptoms. In evaluating such patients, it is apparent that an excellent functional improvement in both the short and medium term may be obtained in those with conventionally unfavorable valve morphology and suboptimal dilatation. The avoidance of general anesthesia, thoracotomy, and the reduction in hospital stay (and costs), and period of immobilization makes PMBV particularly useful for treating elderly patients with symptomatic MS.