Balloon Valvuloplasty

Overview

This procedure treats a condition called "stenosis." That's when a valve in your heart is narrower than it should be. The valve's flaps, called "leaflets," may be stiff or fused. Balloon valvuloplasty widens the valve so blood can flow through your heart normally.

Preparation

To begin, you're anesthetized. A soft, thin tube called a "balloon catheter" is put into a large blood vessel in your leg. With the help of an imaging device, your doctor guides the balloon catheter up through your body. It is pushed into your heart and to the narrowed valve.

Widening the valve

The doctor inflates the catheter's balloon to open the valve. If the valve's leaflets are fused, the balloon separates them. This improves blood flow through your heart. Finally, the balloon is deflated and removed.

End of procedure

After the procedure, you'll be closely watched in a recovery room. Your healthcare provider will tell you when it's safe to go home. You'll need to have followup visits with your doctor to make sure your heart is working properly.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.