Pulmonic Balloon and Balloon Stent Valvuloplasty for Pulmonic Valve Stenosis in Dogs

At Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology, we offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments like Pulmonic Balloon and Balloon Stent Valvuloplasty to treat this condition and improve your dog’s heart health.

What is Pulmonic Valve Stenosis (PVS)?

Pulmonic Valve Stenosis (PVS) is a congenital heart defect in which the pulmonic valve, which controls blood flow from the heart to the lungs, becomes narrowed or obstructed. This narrowing restricts blood flow to the lungs, forcing the heart to work harder, and can eventually lead to heart failure if left untreated.

Signs of Pulmonic Valve Stenosis in Dogs:

• Exercise intolerance: Your dog tires easily or shows weakness during physical activity.
• Fainting or collapsing: Due to reduced oxygen and blood flow.
• Heart murmur: Detected during routine exams.
• Difficulty breathing: Caused by fluid accumulation in the lungs.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s important to consult your veterinarian for further evaluation.

Treatment Options: Pulmonic Balloon Valvuloplasty and Balloon Stent Valvuloplasty

At Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology, we offer two advanced procedures to treat Pulmonic Valve Stenosis:

Pulmonic Balloon Valvuloplasty

Pulmonic Balloon Valvuloplasty is often the first-line treatment for PVS. This minimally invasive procedure involves using a catheter to insert a small balloon into the narrowed pulmonic valve. Once positioned, the balloon is inflated to stretch the valve and improve blood flow to the lungs.

• Minimally Invasive: Performed via a catheter, so no open-chest surgery is required.
• Quick Recovery: Most dogs recover quickly with minimal discomfort.
• Effective: It can significantly improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms of PVS.

Pulmonic Balloon Stent Valvuloplasty

For dogs with more severe cases of Pulmonic Valve Stenosis or those whose valve may narrow again after balloon treatment, Pulmonic Stent Valvuloplasty may be recommended. A stent (a tiny mesh tube) is placed within the valve to keep it open and ensure long-term blood flow.

• Long-Term Solution: The stent helps prevent the valve from narrowing again.
• Minimally Invasive: Like balloon valvuloplasty, stent placement is done through a catheter with no need for open-chest surgery.
• Highly Effective: Stenting is particularly useful for more severe or recurrent cases of PVS.

How the Procedure Works

1. Before the Procedure:
   Your dog will undergo a thorough examination, including blood tests, echocardiography (heart ultrasound), and possibly X-rays to assess the severity of PVS and determine if balloon valvuloplasty or stent placement is necessary.
2. During the Procedure:
   Both balloon valvuloplasty and balloon stent valvuloplasty are performed under general anesthesia. A catheter is inserted through a blood vessel (usually in the leg or neck) and guided to the heart.
   • For Balloon Valvuloplasty, a small balloon is inflated within the narrowed valve to stretch it open.
   • For Stent Valvuloplasty, a stent is placed within the valve to maintain its openness after balloon inflation.
3. After the Procedure:
   Most dogs recover quickly and are able to go home the same day or the next day. Your veterinarian will monitor your dog closely for any signs of complications. Follow-up visits will be necessary to ensure the procedure was successful.

Benefits of Pulmonic Balloon and Balloon Stent Valvuloplasty

• Improved Blood Flow: Both procedures restore proper circulation, ensuring better oxygen delivery to the lungs.
• Minimally Invasive: Both procedures are performed through a catheter, reducing the need for open-chest surgery and resulting in faster recovery times.
• Long-Term Relief: Stent placement, in particular, provides a long-lasting solution to prevent the valve from narrowing again.
• Improved Quality of Life: Dogs that undergo either of these procedures often experience significant improvements in symptoms such as exercise intolerance, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

Is Pulmonic Balloon and Stent Valvuloplasty Right for Your Dog?

If your dog has been diagnosed with pulmonic valve stenosis, Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology is here to help. Our experienced veterinary cardiologists will evaluate your dog’s heart health and determine whether balloon valvuloplasty or balloon stent valvuloplasty is the best course of treatment.

We work closely with pet owners to ensure that each dog receives personalized care, with the goal of improving their heart function and quality of life.

Contact Sawgrass Veterinary Cardiology

If you suspect your dog may have pulmonic valve stenosis, or if your veterinarian has diagnosed the condition, 7. Our team of heart specialists is ready to help restore your dog’s heart health with advanced, minimally invasive treatments.

Schedule a consultation with our cardiology team today to learn how Pulmonic Balloon and Balloon Stent Valvuloplasty can help improve your dog’s heart function and overall well-being.