Transcarotid balloon valvuloplasty for critical aortic valve stenosis at the bedside via continuous transesophageal echocardiographic guidance

We describe the first two successful cases of transcarotid balloon aortic valvuloplasty for critical aortic valve stenosis in the neonate utilizing continuous transesophageal echocardiographic guidance performed at the bedside. This method obviates the need for transporting a sick and hemodynamically unstable neonate to the catheterization laboratory and additionally reduces costs without compromising clinical care. (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.