Technique and results of percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty with the Multi-Track System

The Multi-Track System is a simplified double-balloon technique for percuta neous mitral valvuloplasty. Here we describe the technique and report the r esults obtained using it. The Multi-Track catheter has a short distal tip f or connection to the guidewire. This leaves the rest of guidewire free to r eceive other catheters. Various catheters can be introduced over the same g uidewire. The balloons are introduced one after the other allowing a smalle r size of vascular access and transseptal passage. Furthermore, simultaneou s pressure measurements in the left atrium and left ventricle are possible through a simple venous access, allowing avoidance of arterial puncture. We used this technique worldwide between June 1994 and February 2000 for the treatment of 153 patients with mitral stenosis worldwide. In 12 cases, the procedure was done using the exclusive venous approach. The mean mitral val ve area increased from 0.75 +/- 0.22 to 2 +/- 0.33 cm(2) and the mean left atrial pressure dropped from 27 +/- 8 to 11 +/- 4 mmHg. Four patients had a significant increase in mitral regurgitation, requiring surgical treatment in two patients. There was no mortality. The Multi-Track system is a valid user-friendly and cost-effective alternative for the treatment of mitral s tenosis. It is a rapid and effective procedure associated with low risks.