Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Balloon Valvuloplasty
Pronunciation: val-vyoo-loh-plas-tee
A minimally invasive catheter-based procedure to widen narrowed heart valves using an inflatable balloon.
Full Definition
Balloon valvuloplasty is a percutaneous intervention performed in the cardiac catheterization laboratory to treat valvular stenosis in congenital heart disease. The procedure involves threading a deflated balloon catheter to the narrowed valve and inflating it to stretch the valve opening. This technique is commonly used for pulmonary and aortic valve stenosis in pediatric patients. Editors should note the distinction from surgical valvotomy and ensure proper hyphenation in compound forms.
Usage
Usage note: Use hyphen in compound forms like 'balloon-valvuloplasty technique' but not in the base term.
In Context
- "Balloon valvuloplasty successfully reduced the pressure gradient across the pulmonary valve." — procedure report
- "The patient underwent balloon valvuloplasty as first-line treatment for critical aortic stenosis." — treatment summary
Also known as
balloon valvotomy
percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty
Contrasted with
surgical valvotomy
Don't confuse with
balloon angioplasty
balloon septostomy