Abstract

72 patients with congenital aortic stenosis whose ages ranged from 1 month to 15 years were under supervision for periods ranging from several months to more than 9 years. The obstruction was subvalvar in 3. Additional malformations were aortic regurgitation, persistent ductus arteriosus, coarctation of the aorta, ventricular septal defect, partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage, and mitral stenosis. Bacterial endocarditis complicated 3. Of 5 deaths unrelated to operation, 3 were sudden. Surgical treatment was carried out in 12 patients (commissurotomy, valve replacement with or without previous commissurotomy, subvalvar resection) with 2 deaths. 52 patients remained symptom-free. Detailed investigation to assess the patient for surgical treatment is indicated if symptoms are present or electrocardiographic evidence of severe left ventricular hypertrophy appears. Commissurotomy is, where possible, deferred until an age at which valve replacement can be undertaken if the stenosis cannot be adequately relieved without causing substantial regurgitation.