Commissurotomy for Mitral Stenosis

Abstract

The term "mitral commissurotomy" has been suggested to designate a procedure in which the individual anatomic leaflets of the stenotic mitral valve are surgically separated. By incising the angles or commissures of the mitral slit ("fish-mouth") a considerable degree of valve function can be re-established without the production of additional significant regurgitation. Commissurotomy, as described below, was performed in 8 cases of advanced mitral stenosis. Results in 5 were most satisfactory. There were three deaths early in our experience during the period when our technic was being perfected. (Noted in addendum are 22 cases undergoing the operation since this article was submitted for publication, and bringing the total series to 30.)