Treatment Overview
Valvuloplasty is a procedure that widens a heart valve that is narrow. When you have a condition called aortic valve stenosis, the valve between your heart and the large blood vessel that carries blood to the body (aorta) is narrow. That forces the heart to pump harder to get enough blood through the valve.
The procedure to widen the valve is also called valvulotomy or valvotomy. It can help the valve work better and improve blood flow through the valve. If you are having symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or passing out (syncope), this procedure may help you feel better. The procedure is often done before valve replacement surgery.
During this procedure, the doctor puts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel in your upper leg (groin). The doctor moves the catheter through that blood vessel and into your heart. The doctor puts a dye into the tube. This dye makes your heart show up on a screen so that the doctor can see the aortic valve.
The catheter has a small balloon at the tip. When the tube reaches the narrow heart valve, the balloon is inflated and deflated. Your doctor might do this a few times. The balloon widens the valve opening. Then your doctor removes the balloon and tube from your body.
A cardiac ultrasound test is usually done after, and sometimes during, the procedure.
You likely will stay overnight in the hospital after this procedure.
Your groin may have a bruise and feel sore for a day or two. You can do light activities around the house. But don't do anything strenuous for several days.