Indication and timing of percutaneous mitral balloon valvotomy and the role of atrial fibrillation.

Percutaneous transvenous mitral balloon valvotomy (PTMV) has been proven to be an effective and safe method for treatment of patients with severe mitral valve stenosis. This technique has become an accepted alternative for surgical commissurotomy, not only in young patients with pliable valves, but also in selected older patients with extensive valvular pathology. This review highlights the significance of coexisting atrial fibrillation, patient selection and timing of PTMV in patients with mitral valve stenosis.