When a heart valve (pulmonary or aortic) or a blood vessel is narrowed, the heart must work far harder to push blood through. Balloon valvuloplasty gently inflates a balloon at the tip of a catheter to widen the opening.
The procedure is performed in the cath lab under imaging guidance, without open surgery. It is a proven treatment for pulmonary stenosis and, with stenting, for coarctation of the aorta — relieving strain on the heart before complications develop.
Good to know: Every child is different. For advice tailored to your child, please consult Dr. Nandi directly.
