AORTIC VALVE DILATATION
in pediatrics

What is aortic valve dilatation?

The aortic valve is one of the four valves of the heart and separates the left ventricle (the heart's pump) from the aorta (the largest blood vessel in the body). It allows blood to pass from the heart to the rest of the body. Narrowing of the aortic valve prevents blood from

flow normally and becomes responsible for symptoms such as shortness of breath, angina, and heart failure. Aortic valve dilatation, also called aortic valvuloplasty, is offered in cases of aortic valve narrowing. It is usually a life-saving procedure in newborns, or scheduled in children. The goal of the procedure is to delay the need for heart surgery until adulthood.

Performing aortic valve dilatation:

Aortic dilatation is performed in the catheterization room. The child is laid flat and given general anesthesia so as not to move during the procedure. The doctor performs an arterial puncture in the groin and inserts a thin catheter. The catheter is guided to the heart. An inflatable balloon is positioned at the aortic valve. Then, the balloon is inflated to widen the valve and improve blood flow. At the end of the procedure, the groin is compressed for about ten minutes and then a pressure bandage is applied. The child is monitored in the recovery room until he or she is fully conscious and then returned to the parents. Feeding is only allowed two hours after the end of the procedure to avoid the risk of aspiration. Discharge is usually the next day after an ultrasound check.

Are there any risks associated with aortic valve dilatation?

Despite technical progress and the experience of doctors, cardiac catheterization to dilate the aortic valve involves, as with any invasive or surgical procedure, a risk of incidents or accidents:

• Allergic complications: Most often linked to the use of iodinated radiological products or local anesthetics. If you have already experienced allergic manifestations, it is imperative to inform your doctor.

• Complications at the puncture site of the artery: The most common complication is the formation of a bruise or hematoma at the puncture site which can persist for several days, but is usually without consequence. Also, we can cite thrombosis, that is to say the occlusion of the artery.

• Cardiac and vascular complications: During the examination, palpitations may occur due to a rhythm disorder. Serious complications include cardiac perforation and aortic valve tear. These are rare but not negligible in the context of the emergency and the low weight of the infant.