Wear and tear on your heart valves can lead to degenerative valve disease, a type of heart valve disease.
Some people cannot have open-heart surgery due to age or risk of complications. If you have degenerative valve disease, you may benefit from a minimally invasive treatment option called balloon valvuloplasty.
Emory Healthcare is a nationally recognized academic center of excellence due to our vast array of advanced technologies and treatment options.
We offer several FDA-approved, minimally invasive therapies, as well as clinical trials that provide up-and-coming treatments. This combination of collaborative care and advanced treatments leads to better results for patients.
Balloon valvuloplasty works by stretching your heart valve. This stretch opens your damaged heart valve to improve blood flow.
During balloon valvuloplasty, surgeons make a small incision to access a blood vessel. Then, they insert a thin, flexible tube (catheter) carrying a small, deflated balloon. Your surgeon threads this catheter through your blood vessel until it reaches your damaged valve. Once in position, your surgeon inflates the balloon to stretch the valve opening. This allows more blood to flow.
Your surgeon then deflates the balloon and removes the catheter.
You will remain awake during a balloon valvuloplasty. However, you will receive medicine to control pain during the procedure.
Balloon valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure. This means recovery time is shorter than traditional open surgery.
Balloon valvuloplasty is not a permanent solution for degenerative valve disease. Your doctor may recommend you repeat the procedure at a later date.
Emory Healthcare doctors provide specialized treatment and research the latest advancements.
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