Balloon Valvotomy
Balloon valvotomy, also known as balloon valvuloplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat narrowed heart valves (valvular stenosis). It involves inserting a catheter with a balloon at its tip into the affected valve and inflating it to widen the opening, improving blood flow. This procedure is commonly used for mitral, aortic, pulmonary, and tricuspid valve stenosis.
Why is Balloon Valvotomy Performed?
Balloon valvotomy is recommended for patients who have valvular stenosis, which occurs when the heart valve becomes too narrow to allow proper blood flow. The procedure is typically used for:
- Mitral stenosis (most common)
- Pulmonary stenosis
- Aortic stenosis (in select cases)
- Tricuspid stenosis
It is often preferred over open-heart surgery, especially for patients who are not candidates for surgical valve replacement.
How is the Procedure Performed?
- Preparation: The patient is given a local anesthetic and mild sedation.
- Catheter Insertion: A thin, flexible tube (catheter) with a deflated balloon is inserted through the groin (femoral artery or vein) and guided to the narrowed heart valve.
- Balloon Inflation: Once in position, the balloon is inflated to stretch the valve open, improving blood flow.
- Balloon Deflation and Removal: The balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the valve widened.
- Recovery: The patient is monitored and may need to stay in the hospital for a short period.
Benefits of Balloon Valvotomy
- Minimally invasive (no need for open-heart surgery)
- Shorter recovery time compared to valve replacement surgery
- Effective in relieving symptoms of valve stenosis
- Can delay or prevent the need for valve replacement
- Lower risk of complications compared to surgical alternatives
Risks and Complications
While balloon valvotomy is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Valve regurgitation (leakage of blood through the valve)
- Blood clot formation
- Damage to the heart valve
- Restenosis (valve narrowing may return over time)
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
Who is a Suitable Candidate?
Patients with Moderate to Severe Valvular Stenosis
Those with significant narrowing of the mitral, pulmonary, aortic, or tricuspid valve that affects blood flow.
Individuals Without Severe Valve Calcification
The procedure is most effective when the valve is flexible and not heavily calcified or leaking.
Patients Who Are Not Suitable for Open-Heart Surgery
Elderly individuals, high-risk surgical patients, or those with other medical conditions making surgery unsafe.
Those with Rheumatic Heart Disease
Especially beneficial for younger individuals with mitral stenosis due to rheumatic fever.
Pregnant Women with Mitral Stenosis
Provides symptom relief and improves blood flow during pregnancy when surgery is not a preferred option.
Patients Without Severe Coronary Artery Disease
Candidates should not have significant blockages in their coronary arteries that may require bypass surgery.