Initial Experience with Percutaneous Implantation of the Melody ™ Valve in Brazil

Background: Transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation is an alternative for dysfunctional conduits. We report the first experience with the Melody ™ valve implantation in Brazil. Methods: Patients with significant pulmonary stenosis or sig-nificant pulmonary insufficiency in conduits measuring 16 to 22 mm were enrolled. Standardized techniques were employed. The feasibility, safety and efficacy of this procedure were assessed. Results: From December 2013, ten patients (mean age and weight of 16.5 years and 49 kg, respectively) have undergone the procedure with a mean interval of 11.9 ± 8.6 years since the last surgery. Pulmonary insufficiency was an indication for treatment in three patients, pulmonary stenosis in two, and mixed lesion in five. The Melody ™ valve was suc-cessfully implanted in all cases. Mean right ventricular systoli