commissural fusion
Pathologic adhesion of valve leaflet commissures, typically resulting from inflammatory processes and causing valvular stenosis.
Full Definition
Commissural fusion refers to the pathologic process in which the normal commissures (junction points) between cardiac valve leaflets become adherent or fused together, typically as a result of inflammatory scarring from conditions such as rheumatic heart disease, infective endocarditis, or congenital malformations. This fusion process results in restriction of leaflet mobility and reduction in effective valve orifice area, leading to valvular stenosis. The degree of commissural fusion can vary from partial to complete, and the pattern of fusion often provides clues to the underlying etiology. Surgical commissurotomy may be performed to restore valve function by separating fused commissures.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which commissures are involved and the degree of fusion for accurate pathologic description.
In Context
- "Gross examination revealed extensive commissural fusion of the mitral valve with a fish-mouth orifice." — Valve replacement pathology
- "The aortic valve showed commissural fusion between the right and left coronary cusps." — Cardiac surgery specimen