False tendon rupture simulating chordal rupture after percutaneous mitral balloon dilation. A report of two cases

We describe two cases of ruptured false tendons following percutaneous balloon dilation of the mitral valve in one case, and combined mitral and aortic balloon valvotomy in the other, using in both the retrograde approach. The echocardiographic characteristics of this previously unreported complication of the procedure are presented with special emphasis on the differentiation with true chordal rupture. No short or mid term adverse effects were noted following this complication.