Valvuloplasty

1. Physical examination: The doctor will examine you physically and ask about your symptoms and medical history. The doctor will also listen to the heart with a stethoscope to determine if a heart murmur sound can be heard.
2. Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to create images of the heart in motion. It shows how the blood is flowing through the heart and heart valves.
3. Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): This test involves the insertion of a flexible tube containing an ultrasound probe down the throat and into the food pipe (esophagus) and placed close to the heart to obtain a better view of the heart valves.
4. Chest x-ray: It helps the doctor to check the condition of the heart and lungs.
5. Stress tests or exercise tests: You will be asked to walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while the heart will be monitored. Sometimes, medications that have similar effects as exercise may be given if you cannot exercise.
6. Cardiac computerized tomography (CT) scan: This test involves combining several x-ray images to create a detailed cross-sectional view of the heart.
7. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: This test uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart.
8. Cardiac catheterization: Also known as a coronary angiogram, this test is performed if the other tests are unable to diagnose the condition or determine the severity of the condition. It involves the insertion of a long, thin flexible tube, known as a catheter, in a blood vessel, normally in the wrist or groin area, and guided to the heart. A contrast dye is injected into the catheter so that the arteries show up more clearly on x-ray images and videos.

The valvuloplasty procedure is generally performed under sedation, which helps you relax during the procedure. The procedure is performed as follows:

1. The cardiologist inserts a small, hollow tube, called a sheath, through a blood vessel in the arm, groin, or shoulder region.
2. A catheter with a deflated balloon is then threaded through this sheath.
3. The doctor then injects a contrast dye through the catheter and uses x-rays to guide the catheter to the affected heart valve region.
4. The doctor will then inflate the balloon at the top of the catheter to open the narrowed heart valve.
5. The catheter is then removed and the incision site is closed using a special surgical glue or stitches.
6. Sometimes, the sheath may be left in place for up to six hours in case of an increased bleeding risk or if there is a need to wait for the blood-thinning medicine to wear off.

The complications associated with a valvuloplasty procedure may include the following:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clot formation
• Requirement of blood transfusion
• Kidney failure
• Stroke
• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Valve leakage
• Valve rupture
• Requirement of open-heart surgery 
• Death

1. You will be taken to the observation room after the procedure.
2. You will need bed rest for two to six hours after the procedure, depending on your condition.
3. You will be given medicine to relieve your pain or discomfort after the procedure.
4. You will be told to drink plenty of water and other fluids to flush the contrast dye from the body.
5. It is normal to have an increased urge to urinate due to the increased fluid intake and the effects of the contrast dye. You can use a bedpan or urinal while you are on bed rest to prevent bending your affected arm or leg.
6. You can start moving around slowly after your recommended period of bed rest.
7. Most patients will be discharged the next day after the procedure.

Home remedies:

The following home-care tips can aid in a quick and smooth recovery after valvuloplasty:

1. Your doctor will guide you on how to take care of the catheter insertion site.
2. You can resume work one week after the procedure. But, if you have a job that is physically demanding, you may have to wait a little longer before resuming work.
3. Avoid swimming and other strenuous activities for approximately five to seven days after the procedure.
4. It will take approximately eight weeks for complete recovery and before you can resume all your daily activities.

Cost of valvuloplasty in India- 

The cost of valvuloplasty in Mumbai is between INR 4,00,000 to INR 8,00,000.
The cost of valvuloplasty in Delhi is between INR 3,50,000 to INR 7,50,000.
The cost of valvuloplasty in Bangalore is between INR 3,50,000 to INR 7,50,000.
The cost of valvuloplasty in Chennai is between INR 3,00,000 to INR 7,00,000.