Balloon Valvulotomy
Fig 1. Opening of a stenotic bicuspid valve
A valvotomy is the cutting of an obstructed valve to relieve obstruction. This treatment was introduced in 1984, and only aids those with symptomatic mitrial or aortic stenosis. This option is open to individuals in which the valve had calcified and stiffened to the point that it no longer opens.
There are two techniques used. One is similar to a previously mentioned valvuloplasty, involving a catheter and balloon, but it uses a rapid inflation and deflation of the balloon to break up the calcium deposits.
The other uses open heart surgery and a physical blade to open the valve
that had been calcified shut.
There are two techniques used. One is similar to a previously mentioned valvuloplasty, involving a catheter and balloon, but it uses a rapid inflation and deflation of the balloon to break up the calcium deposits.
The other uses open heart surgery and a physical blade to open the valve
that had been calcified shut.