What is the procedure called that repairs a heart valve using a balloon apparatus?

The procedure that repairs a heart valve using a balloon apparatus is known as balloon valvuloplasty. This minimally invasive technique involves inserting a balloon catheter into the heart and strategically placing it at the site of the narrowed or obstructed heart valve. Once in position, the balloon is inflated, which opens the valve and improves blood flow through the heart.

Balloon valvuloplasty is specifically designed for cases where the heart valve is stenotic (narrowed) but not severely damaged. It is a beneficial alternative to surgical valve replacement, especially in high-risk patients or those with significant comorbidities, as it generally involves a shorter recovery time and fewer complications.

In contrast, heart transplant refers to the surgical replacement of a diseased heart with a healthy donor heart, which is a much more complex and involved procedure. Coronary bypass surgery involves redirecting blood flow around blocked arteries to improve blood supply to the heart muscle, and it does not directly address valve conditions. Stent insertion is used to open blocked coronary arteries and is not involved in valve repair. Therefore, balloon valvuloplasty is the specific procedure aimed at addressing heart valve issues using a balloon mechanism.