Percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty; pulmonary valve
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Percutaneous Balloon Valvuloplasty; Pulmonary Valve
Common name: Balloon Pulmonary Valvuloplasty
Summary
Percutaneous Balloon Valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to widen a narrowed pulmonary valve, which is one of the heart valves. A balloon catheter is inserted and inflated to stretch the valve open and improve blood flow.
Purpose
Medical condition/problem: This procedure addresses pulmonary valve stenosis, a condition where the pulmonary valve is too narrow, restricting blood flow from the heart to the lungs.
Goals/Expected outcomes: The goal is to improve blood flow and reduce the workload on the heart, enhancing heart function and alleviating symptoms.
Indications
Specific symptoms/conditions:
- Symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting.
- Diagnosis of pulmonary valve stenosis based on clinical assessment and imaging.
Patient criteria: - Patients with significant pulmonary valve stenosis.
- Suitable candidates must not have significant valve regurgitation.
Preparation
Pre-procedure instructions:
- Fasting for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
- Adjust medications as directed by the healthcare provider, particularly blood thinners.
Diagnostic tests: - Echocardiogram, ECG, chest X-ray, and blood tests to evaluate heart function and overall health.
Procedure Description
- The patient is typically sedated or under general anesthesia.
- A catheter with a deflated balloon at its tip is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin, and guided to the pulmonary valve using imaging technology.
- Once in position, the balloon is inflated, forcing the valve to open wider.
- The balloon is then deflated and removed.
- The catheter is withdrawn, and the insertion site is bandaged.
Tools/Equipment: Balloon catheter, imaging equipment (e.g., fluoroscopy), and monitoring devices.
Duration
The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours.
Setting
Performed in a cardiac catheterization lab within a hospital.
Personnel
Involves a cardiologist (specifically, an interventional cardiologist), nurses, and an anesthesiologist.
Risks and Complications
Common risks:
- Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site.
- Mild pain or discomfort.
Rare risks: - Blood vessel damage.
- Infection.
- Valve damage or regurgitation.
- Embolism (blood clot that travels). Management:
- Close monitoring and prompt treatment of any complications.
Benefits
Expected benefits:
- Improved blood flow from the heart to the lungs.
- Relief of symptoms such as breathlessness and fatigue. Realization timeframe:
- Benefits are often noticeable shortly after the procedure.
Recovery
Post-procedure care/instructions:
- Monitor vitals and puncture site.
- Rest and limited activity for a few days. Recovery time:
- Most patients can resume normal activities within a week.
- Follow-up appointments are necessary to assess valve function and overall recovery.
Alternatives
Other treatment options:
- Open-heart surgery for valve repair or replacement.
- Medication to manage symptoms. Pros and cons:
- Surgery may be more invasive with a longer recovery period but could be required for severe cases not suitable for balloon valvuloplasty.
- Medications may manage symptoms but do not address the underlying valve issue.
Patient Experience
During the procedure:
- Patients may feel some pressure at the insertion site but should not feel pain due to sedation or anesthesia. After the procedure:
- Mild discomfort or soreness at the catheter site is possible. Pain management and comfort measures:
- Pain relievers and care instructions to ensure comfort and aid recovery.