Cardiology Procedure

What are Heart Valves?

Heart valves are essential components of the cardiovascular system, responsible for regulating blood flow within the heart. There are four main heart valves:

Aortic Valve Situated between the left ventricle and the aorta, the aortic valve controls blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.

Mitral Valve Positioned between the left atrium and the left ventricle, the mitral valve ensures that blood flows in the correct direction during each heartbeat.

Tricuspid Valve Found between the right atrium and the right ventricle, the tricuspid valve facilitates blood flow from the body into the right ventricle.

Why is Heart Valve Intervention Done?

Heart valve intervention, including valve replacement and balloon aortic valvuloplasty, may be necessary for the following reasons:

Valve Disease

Heart valve disease, such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage), can significantly impair heart function and lead to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

Improving Blood Flow

Interventions like balloon aortic valvuloplasty are performed to widen narrowed valves, enhancing blood flow and reducing symptoms associated with valve stenosis.

Preventing Complications

Valve replacement may be recommended to replace severely damaged or diseased heart valves, reducing the risk of complications such as heart failure, stroke, and heart rhythm abnormalities.