Percutaneous approaches to valvular heart disease.

Percutaneous endovascular therapy has now become a reality. From early balloon valvotomy for valvular stenosis, technologies have been developed that allow percutaneous replacement of pulmonic and aortic valves and repair of regurgitant mitral valves in selected patients. Following extensive investigations in animals, early clinical reports have shown successes in selected patients. As criteria for patient selection and clinical safety and efficacy trials progress, the role of these new technologies in patient care strategy will become better understood.