Aortic Balloon Valvuloplasty and Cutting Balloon Valvuloplasty in Dogs

Aortic Balloon Valvuloplasty and Cutting Balloon Valvuloplasty in Dogs

At Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology, we specialize in advanced treatments to address severe heart valve conditions in dogs and improve your pet’s quality of life.

What is Aortic Balloon Valvuloplasty?

Aortic balloon valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve obstruction caused by aortic stenosis. Aortic stenosis is a condition where the aortic valve is narrowed, restricting blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. This procedure is often recommended for dogs with moderate to severe aortic stenosis to improve blood flow and reduce the strain on the heart.

What is Cutting Balloon Valvuloplasty?

Cutting balloon valvuloplasty is a specialized variation of the traditional balloon procedure. It uses a balloon catheter equipped with small blades or cutting elements to make precise incisions in the thickened valve tissue before the balloon is inflated. This approach is particularly useful for dogs with severe stenosis where standard balloon techniques may not be as effective.

Common Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis in Dogs

• Fainting or collapsing during exercise
• Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
• Lethargy or reduced activity levels
• Heart murmur detected during routine exams
• Symptoms of heart failure, such as coughing or fluid buildup

Treatment Options: Aortic and Cutting Balloon Valvuloplasty

At Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology, we offer both traditional and cutting-edge balloon valvuloplasty techniques to improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms associated with aortic stenosis. These procedures provide effective relief with faster recovery times compared to traditional surgical methods.

How the Procedures Work

1. Before the Procedure:
   • Your dog will undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) and possibly an electrocardiogram (ECG), to assess the severity of the stenosis and determine the best treatment approach.
2. During the Procedure:
   • Aortic Balloon Valvuloplasty: Under general anesthesia, a catheter with a deflated balloon is inserted into a vein or artery and guided to the aortic valve. The balloon is then inflated to widen the narrowed valve, improving blood flow from the heart.
   • Cutting Balloon Valvuloplasty: Similar to the standard approach, this procedure uses a cutting balloon to make small incisions in the thickened valve tissue. The balloon is then inflated to open the valve further, allowing for more effective relief of the obstruction.
3. After the Procedure:
   • Most dogs recover quickly and experience an immediate improvement in symptoms. A short hospital stay ensures your pet is closely monitored, and follow-up visits are scheduled to evaluate the long-term success of the procedure.

Benefits of Aortic and Cutting Balloon Valvuloplasty

• Minimally Invasive: Avoids the need for open-heart surgery, reducing risks and recovery time.
• Effective Symptom Relief: Improves blood flow and reduces the strain on the heart.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Many dogs experience increased energy and activity levels post-procedure.
• Tailored Approach: Customized to your dog’s specific condition for optimal outcomes.
• Advanced Techniques: Cutting balloon technology offers an additional option for dogs with severe or complex cases of stenosis.

Is Aortic or Cutting Balloon Valvuloplasty Right for Your Dog?

If your dog has been diagnosed with aortic stenosis or is showing signs of heart disease, early intervention is crucial to prevent further complications. Both aortic and cutting balloon valvuloplasty can be life-changing options, allowing your dog to live a more active and comfortable life.

Contact Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology

If your dog has been diagnosed with aortic stenosis or is showing symptoms of heart disease, contact us today. Our experienced cardiology team is here to provide expert care and advanced treatment tailored to your pet’s needs.

Schedule a consultation to learn more about aortic and cutting balloon valvuloplasty and how they can improve your dog’s heart health and overall well-being.