Guide To Treating Rheumatic Heart Disease

Balloon Angioplasty And Stenting

Rheumatic heart disease may cause the heart valves to become stuck closed. Balloon angioplasty and stenting can help open these valves to ensure adequate blood flow. The first step is inserting a tiny balloon into the affected heart valve. The surgeon inflates it to instantly widen the affected valve. Removing this balloon could cause the valve to close again, so surgeons will insert a stent, a small tube usually made of wire mesh, before removing the balloon. This will hold the valve open and reduce the risk of it becoming closed again. Some stents are coated with medicine, while others are not.