Balloon Atrial Septoplasty
A catheter-based procedure to enlarge a restrictive atrial septal communication using balloon dilation.
Full Definition
Balloon atrial septoplasty is an interventional cardiology procedure performed to enlarge a restrictive atrial septal defect or patent foramen ovale. Unlike balloon atrial septostomy (Rashkind procedure) which creates a new communication, septoplasty enlarges an existing one. The procedure involves advancing a balloon catheter across the atrial septum and inflating it to tear the septum and increase the size of the communication. This is commonly performed in patients with mitral atresia, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, or other conditions requiring unobstructed atrial-level mixing.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully from septostomy procedures; septoplasty enlarges existing communications while septostomy creates new ones.
In Context
- "Balloon atrial septoplasty was performed to relieve the restrictive atrial septal defect causing pulmonary venous hypertension." — catheterization report
- "Post-procedural echocardiography confirmed adequate enlargement of the atrial communication following septoplasty." — procedural note