Valvuloplasty

Valvuloplasty opens stiff or narrowed heart valves to increase blood flow. Also called valvotomy, this minimally invasive treatment is available to you at the Adventist HealthCare Heart & Vascular Institute at White Oak Medical Center. Because it doesn’t involve surgery, you’ll recover sooner, more easily and with a lower risk of complications (side effects).

Do I Need Valvuloplasty?

You may benefit from valvuloplasty if you have signs of severe mitral valve stenosis, but don’t have mitral regurgitation. This treatment can relieve symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, lightheadedness and shortness of breath.

Valvuloplasty also eases some symptoms of severe aortic stenosis. But for long-term relief of this condition, you may need another procedure, such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or open-heart surgery.

How Valvuloplasty Works

You’ll lie on a table while an interventional cardiologist makes a tiny incision over an artery in your upper thigh. The doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into the artery to carry a tiny balloon to your heart. The physician inflates the balloon inside the narrowed valve, opening and widening it so blood can flow more easily. Then, the cardiologist deflates the balloon and withdraws the catheter.

Recovery & Rehabilitation

You’ll stay in the hospital for about 24 hours while your cardiologist and nurses monitor your health. When you’re ready to leave, you’ll receive instructions on how to take care of yourself at home. We’ll make a follow-up appointment with your doctor’s office to make sure you heal well. Ask us about home care services and cardiac rehabilitation, which can help you recover and safely regain strength.