There is not enough evidence about how well this procedure works. This type of procedure can cause complications. So it can only be done with special arrangements. This means you will have regular appointments afterwards to check how well it is working or if it has caused problems.
A paravalvular leak is when blood leaks around a replacement heart valve (mitral or aortic). Some leaks can lead to heart failure, shortness of breath, swelling in the legs and feet, or anaemia. In this procedure, a small tube (catheter) is put into a large vein (for a mitral valve) or artery (for an aortic valve), usually through the skin (percutaneous) at the top of the leg. A wire is guided through the catheter to the heart valve and a closure device is then passed through the catheter to block the area that is leaking. The aim is to stop the leak.
The NHS website may have information on your condition and treatment options.
You can search the NHS website for information about consultants and hospitals that offer this procedure.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
More information
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on interventional procedures recommendations explains what special arrangements are.
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