Balloon Valvuloplasty (Mitral, Pulmonary, Aortic)
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
Balloon Valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat stenosis (narrowing) of the heart valves, including the mitral, pulmonary, and aortic valves. During this procedure, a catheter with a small, deflated balloon at its tip is carefully guided to the narrowed heart valve. Once in position, the balloon is inflated to widen the valve opening, allowing for improved blood flow through the heart. This procedure is a crucial intervention for patients with valvular stenosis, who may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and palpitations due to restricted blood flow.
The three main types of Balloon Valvuloplasty are differentiated by the valve being treated: Mitral Balloon Valvuloplasty, Pulmonary Balloon Valvuloplasty, and Aortic Balloon Valvuloplasty. Mitral Balloon Valvuloplasty is often performed on patients with mitral stenosis due to rheumatic heart disease, which can result in scarring and thickening of the mitral valve. Pulmonary Balloon Valvuloplasty is typically recommended for congenital pulmonary stenosis, a condition that restricts blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery. Aortic Balloon Valvuloplasty is performed to treat aortic stenosis, commonly caused by age-related calcification or congenital abnormalities of the aortic valve.
Balloon Valvuloplasty is a less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery and is often performed as a bridge to surgery or when surgery is not an option. While it may not provide a permanent solution, it can improve symptoms and quality of life, especially for patients who are not ideal candidates for more invasive treatments. The procedure requires a skilled interventional cardiologist to ensure precision and minimize risks.
Procedure Duration
The duration of Balloon Valvuloplasty generally depends on the specific valve being treated, the complexity of the patient’s condition, and the hospital setup. On average, the procedure takes about one to two hours to complete, though it may take longer if unexpected complications arise or if multiple valves are treated. During the procedure, patients are usually given sedation or local anesthesia to help them remain comfortable, though general anesthesia may be required in some cases.
Balloon Valvuloplasty can be divided into three phases: preparation, intervention, and post-procedure recovery. During the preparation phase, patients undergo a series of tests, such as an echocardiogram or cardiac catheterization, to assess the severity of their condition and determine their eligibility for the procedure. The intervention phase is the main part of the procedure, where the interventional cardiologist guides the catheter to the affected valve and inflates the balloon to open the valve. In some cases, the cardiologist may need to inflate and deflate the balloon multiple times to achieve the desired results.
Recovery time from Balloon Valvuloplasty is relatively short compared to traditional open-heart surgery. Most patients stay in the hospital overnight for monitoring and can resume normal activities within a few days, though they are advised to avoid strenuous activities for a week or two. Full recovery may take a few weeks, during which patients may be given medications to prevent complications and are closely monitored for any signs of recurrent stenosis.
Benefits
- Minimally Invasive: Balloon Valvuloplasty avoids the need for open-heart surgery, resulting in shorter hospital stays and faster recovery.
- Symptom Relief: Patients experience immediate relief from symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.
- Improved Quality of Life: The procedure helps restore normal blood flow, enabling patients to resume daily activities with reduced limitations.
- Suitable for High-Risk Patients: The procedure is a valuable option for patients who are not candidates for open-heart surgery due to age or other health conditions.
- Potentially Repeatable: Balloon Valvuloplasty can be repeated if the valve narrows again, making it a viable option for patients with progressive stenosis.
Potential Destinations
- India: India is known for its highly skilled interventional cardiologists and advanced cardiac care infrastructure. The country's hospitals offer competitive pricing and are equipped with the latest technology, making India a top destination for Balloon Valvuloplasty.
- Thailand: Thailand has a robust medical tourism industry with well-established cardiac centers. Many hospitals in Thailand are internationally accredited and offer specialized heart care, with affordable prices for procedures like Balloon Valvuloplasty.
- Turkey: Turkey has a reputation for excellence in interventional cardiology and state-of-the-art medical facilities. The country offers a cost-effective option for Balloon Valvuloplasty with high standards of care, particularly in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara.
- Mexico: Mexico provides convenient access for North American patients seeking Balloon Valvuloplasty. With a growing number of accredited hospitals and experienced cardiologists, Mexico offers high-quality care at a fraction of the cost in the U.S.
- Germany: Known for its advanced healthcare system, Germany offers some of the best cardiac care facilities in Europe. While it is a more expensive option, Germany’s hospitals provide world-class care, cutting-edge technology, and a strong focus on patient safety.
Risks & Considerations
- Risk of Valve Damage: Inflating the balloon can potentially damage the valve structure, leading to leaks or worsening of stenosis, particularly in older patients or those with calcified valves.
- Recurrence of Stenosis: Balloon Valvuloplasty may not provide a permanent solution, and stenosis may recur, especially in cases of aortic stenosis. Patients may require additional treatments in the future.
- Blood Clots: There is a risk of blood clots forming in the catheter or heart during the procedure, which can lead to complications like stroke if not properly managed with anticoagulants.
- Infection: Although rare, infections can occur at the catheter insertion site or within the heart, necessitating careful monitoring and post-procedure hygiene.
- Arrhythmia: Irregular heart rhythms can occur during or after the procedure, and while they are usually temporary, some patients may require medications or further intervention.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
When selecting a doctor and hospital for Balloon Valvuloplasty, it is essential to research the experience and credentials of the interventional cardiologist. Look for specialists with extensive training in valvuloplasty and a track record of successful outcomes. Hospitals with dedicated cardiac units and modern imaging facilities are also preferred, as these support the precision and safety required for such procedures.
Furthermore, consider hospitals with international accreditation to ensure adherence to global healthcare standards. Reading patient reviews, understanding hospital policies on infection control, and inquiring about post-procedure follow-up support can help ensure a smooth and safe medical experience.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
Orthopedics Stem Cell
Knee
Research on mesenchymal stem cells regenerative properties in knee osteoarthritis. In these studies, researchers suggest that Stem Cell Therapy has the potential to regenerate lost cartilage, stop and reverse cartilage degeneration, provide pain relief, and improve patient mobility.
Shoulder
Stem Cell Therapy as an Alternative to Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Replacement Surgery. Stem cell therapy may offer an excellent alternative for patients looking to avoid shoulder joint replacement surgery, as well as many other surgical treatments for shoulder pain.
Ankle
If you suffer from chronic or acute ankle pain or instability due to arthritis, cartilage loss, ligament strain or tear, or tendon damage, then you may benefit from non-surgical stem cell treatments or stem cell-enhanced surgery.
Back Pain
Patients now have a minimally invasive option. Stem cell therapy for back pain and disc herniations can potentially repair the damaged disc or facet joint, restore function, rehydrate the disc, and ultimately alleviate chronic pain.
Anti-Aging Stem Cell
Hair Loss
Stem cell therapy and PRP therapy have been shown to be most effective for: Those in the early stages of hair loss, patients who are not viable candidates for surgery and women who prefer to avoid hair surgery.
Facial Anti-Aging
Aesthetic Anti-Aging. The Aesthetic Stem Cell Localized Treatment is a non-surgical minimally invasive procedure to enhance the appearance of aging skin and hair restoration. This all-natural technique combines dermal injections of bone marrow or adipose tissue derived stem cells and growth factors.
Fertility Stem Cell
Endometrial PRP
The stem cells used for treatment of a thin endometrium include mesenchymal stem cells. In addition, successful repair of the endometrium in pregnancy with stem cells has been reported previously.
Low Ovarian Reserve (PRP)
The treatment uses PRP (Platelet-Rich-Plasma), which with stem cell therapy is the novel therapeutic approach for restoring the quality of the ovarian reserve.Your PRP will contain a physiologic balance of platelets, growth factors and white blood cells tailored specifically for you.
Punta Mita Hospital
Mexico
Punta Mita Hospital - Genesis Cell
Mexico
