Aortic stenosis�is the narrowing or obstruction of the aortic valve, which prevents it from opening properly and blocks the flow of blood from the left lower chamber of the heart to the aorta.
Pulmonary valve stenosis�is a condition in which the flow of blood from the heart (right ventricle, or lower chamber) is blocked at the valve that separates the heart from the pulmonary artery (pulmonic valve). This narrowing is usually present at birth (congenital).
Mitral stenosis�is a heart valve disorder that involves a narrowing or blockage of the opening of the mitral valve, which separates the upper and lower chambers on the left side of the heart. This prevents the valve from opening properly. The upper heart chamber may swell as pressure builds up and blood may flow back into the lungs, resulting in pulmonary edema.
Although aortic valve replacement is undoubtedly the treatment of choice for aortic valve stenosis, balloon aortic valvuloplasty may represent the only possible treatment for some frail elderly patients who may have additional medical problems.
Balloon valvuloplasty�may be considered instead of surgery. This procedure entails placing a balloon into the mitral valve through a catheter that is inserted into a leg vein. The balloon is then inflated, widening the mitral valve and improving blood flow. This procedure is very effective when the valves are in good condition.
