Non-Invasive Cardiovascular Testing | Invasive Cardiac Procedures
Since invasive procedures have a higher risk of complications, our doctors employ other approaches whenever possible, without compromising the quality of care. Valvuloplasty is a minimally-invasive procedure our skilled SPCVA cardiologists perform via a catheter, thus avoiding open-heart surgery for patients who are appropriate candidates.
Mitral valvuloplasty is used to open a stenotic (stiff) or narrowed mitral heart valve that is causing problems for the patient. If your doctor determines that valvuloplasty is warranted, you will first need an echocardiogram and/or diagnostic cardiac catheterization, to offer your cardiovascular surgeon a detailed look at all aspects of the heart’s functioning, as well as the size, shape, and specific movements of your heart valves.
During the procedure, a surgeon inserts a catheter (tiny hollow tube) into a blood vessel in the groin, and threads it through to the aorta in the heart, while being guided by x-rays. Once it is in place in the mitral valve, a balloon at the tip of the catheter is gradually inflated, gently forcing the mitral valve into an open position. When the valve flaps are fully open, the balloon is deflated, and removed. The procedure generally takes about two hours to perform, and will require an overnight hospital stay.
South Palm Cardiovascular Associates’ doctors are experts in providing mitral valvuloplasty. If you require this procedure, your doctor will discuss follow-up monitoring and any other needed treatments with you as part of your ongoing top cardiac care in Boynton Beach.
EDUCATIONAL VIDEO LIBRARY
Nuclear Stress Testing
Right Heart Catheterization & Vasodilator Studies
Cardiac Catheterization
Echocardiography
