Balloon valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat heart valve stenosis, where a valve becomes narrowed and obstructs blood flow. It is most commonly performed on the aortic or mitral valves. During the procedure, a catheter with a deflated balloon at its tip is inserted through the femoral or radial artery and guided to the site of the narrowed valve. Once in place, the balloon is inflated, which dilates the valve opening and allows better blood flow through the heart.
Balloon valvuloplasty is particularly effective in treating congenital or acquired valve stenosis, especially when surgery is too risky for a patient. It is often used in cases of aortic stenosis, pulmonary stenosis, or mitral stenosis.While the procedure can provide significant relief from symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain, it may not be a permanent solution, and some patients may require further interventions or valve replacement in the future.