Intermediate
Technical
IVT
commissural fusion
Pathological joining of valve leaflet commissures, typically seen in rheumatic valve disease requiring surgical separation.
Full Definition
Commissural fusion occurs when the natural separation points between valve leaflets become pathologically joined, most commonly affecting the mitral and aortic valves in rheumatic heart disease. This fusion restricts valve opening and contributes to stenosis. Surgical treatment may involve commissurotomy to separate the fused commissures, though care must be taken to avoid creating significant regurgitation. The degree of fusion influences surgical approach and outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which valve and commissures are affected in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Significant commissural fusion was noted at both mitral valve commissures during surgical inspection." — Intraoperative findings
- "The degree of commissural fusion precluded effective balloon valvuloplasty." — Treatment planning
Also known as
commissure fusion
leaflet fusion
Contrasted with
commissural separation
Don't confuse with
commissural calcification
commissural prolapse