Balloon Valvotomies

Balloon valvuloplasty, also known as balloon valvotomy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat certain types of heart valve diseases, particularly stenosis (narrowing) of the heart valves. During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter with a deflated balloon at its tip is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin area, and guided to the site of the narrowed heart valve.

Once the catheter is positioned correctly, the balloon is inflated to compress the narrowed valve, widening the opening and improving blood flow through the heart. After the balloon is deflated, the catheter is removed.

Balloon valvuloplasty is commonly performed to treat stenosis of the mitral valve and pulmonary valve, as well as some cases of aortic valve stenosis. It can help alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue, and improve overall heart function. While balloon valvuloplasty is not suitable for all patients with valve disease, it can be a less invasive alternative to valve replacement surgery for certain individuals, especially those who are not good candidates for surgery due to age or other medical conditions.