Effect of successful percutaneous balloon mitral valvotomy on aortic elastic properties in mitral stenosis

<b>Background:</b> Aortic elastic properties in mitral stenosis have not been much studied. To date, only a few studies have studied the effect of percutaneous balloon mitral valvotomy (BMV) on aortic elastic properties. This was the first study done in Indian subcontinent in a tertiary care hospital in South India studying the effect of BMV on aortic stiffness in severe rheumatic mitral stenosis. We studied the relationship between aortic elastic properties and mitral stenosis and the effect of BMV on the same. <b>Results:</b> A total of thirty-two patients satisfying the criteria for severe mitral stenosis underwent balloon mitral valvotomy. All parameters were compared with age and sex-matched healthy volunteers. Aortic elastic properties were assessed by aortic strain and aortic stiffness index (ASI). The aortic strain was significantly higher in the patients with mitral stenosis 24-48 h after BMV, whereas the ASI was significantly lower. There was a significant decrease in mitral mean gradient and systolic pulmonary artery pressure after BMV. Mitral valve area significantly increased after BMV. <b>Conclusions:</b> Aortic elastic properties, as assessed by aortic stiffness, are usually impaired in patients with mitral stenosis, which improves following balloon mitral valvotomy.