Surgical Aortic Valvuloplasty Versus Balloon Aortic Valve Dilatation in Children

Balloon aortic valve dilatation has been assumed by some to provide the same outcomes as surgical aortic valvuloplasty. However, the development of precise modern surgical valvuloplasty techniques may result in better

long-term durability of the aortic valve repair. This review of the recent literature suggests that current surgical aortic valvuloplasty techniques provide a safe and durable repair. Furthermore, primary surgical valvuloplasty appears to have greater freedom from re-intervention and aortic valve replacement as compared to balloon aortic valve dilatation.