Critical Pulmonary Stenosis in Infants Less than Three Months of Age: A Reappraisal of Closed Transventricular Pulmonary Valvotomy

Sixteen patients less than 3 months of age underwent closed transventricular pulmonary valvotomy for critical pulmonary stenosis with intact ventricular septum. There were 14 survivors; the 2 deaths were unrelated to the technique. Early and late results reveal good hemodynamics in all but 1 patient who underwent open valvotomy four years later for restenosis. We have used this technique exclusively, as it is safe, requires little preparation for operative relief in the very sick infant, and the early and late results are excellent.