Valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open up stiff or scarred heart valves that have become narrowed and restrict blood flow. This nonsurgical treatment helps "reshape" the affected valve, allowing blood to flow more normally through the heart.

Before the procedure, you will be given medication to help you relax and ease any discomfort.

An interventional cardiologist will make a small incision in an artery and insert a thin, spaghetti-like tube (catheter) with a balloon attached. The catheter is guided through your blood vessels to the narrowed heart valve.

Using advanced imaging technology, real-time images of your heart and blood vessels are displayed on a monitor, helping your care team identify and target the area needing treatment. A special dye is also injected through the catheter to provide a clearer view of the valve's movement.

Once in position, the balloon is repeatedly inflated and deflated at the site of the diseased valve. This process gently pushes aside the thickened or fused tissue, improving blood flow through the heart.

After the valve has been successfully opened, the catheter is removed and the procedure is complete.

You may need to stay overnight in the hospital so your care team can monitor your recovery.