An overview of Valvuloplasty
Valvuloplasty is a medical procedure to repair a narrowed heart valve. It involves inserting a catheter tipped with a balloon into a blood vessel and guiding it to the narrowed valve in the heart. The balloon is then inflated to widen the valve, improving blood flow. The procedure is typically done during cardiac catheterization, and an overnight hospital stay is required afterward. Regular health checkups and imaging tests of the heart are needed after valvuloplasty to ensure the heart valve is working properly.
What is Valvuloplasty used for?
Valvuloplasty is a procedure used to repair a narrowed heart valve (valve stenosis) by widening the valve opening. It involves inserting a catheter tipped with a balloon into a blood vessel and guiding it to the narrowed valve in the heart. Once in position, the balloon is inflated to widen the valve, improving blood flow. Valvuloplasty may be recommended for patients with severe valve narrowing that is causing symptoms, but the decision to undergo the procedure may depend on the specific type and stage of heart valve disease, as well as the valve affected.
How is Valvuloplasty conducted?
Valvuloplasty is a surgical procedure to repair a narrowed heart valve. It is typically performed during a cardiac catheterization, where a cardiologist inserts a catheter tipped with a balloon into a blood vessel, usually in the groin, and guides it to the narrowed valve in the heart. Once in position, the balloon is inflated to widen the valve, improving blood flow. After the procedure, an overnight hospital stay is usually required, and regular health checkups and imaging tests are needed to ensure the heart valve is working properly. The decision to have a valvuloplasty may depend on the affected valve and the severity of the narrowing.
How are Valvuloplasty results reported?
Valvuloplasty results are typically reported based on the improvement in blood flow through the heart valve and the reduction of symptoms. The success of the procedure is assessed by measuring the degree of narrowing before and after the intervention. If the valve opening has widened significantly, and symptoms have decreased or resolved, the valvuloplasty is considered successful. However, it is important to note that the valve may narrow again in the future, and additional procedures, such as valve repair or replacement, may be needed.