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This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition. en Español | Complete disclaimer

 

UMHS Related Sites:

• Pulmonary Hypertension Program
• University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center

Atrial Septostomy

Some patients with very a high pressure in their lung circulation (Pulmonary Hypertension) might benefit from balloon atrial septostomy. During the procedure, a catheter is placed into the large blood vessel in the leg and floated into the heart. The catheter is then advanced through the wall that separates the two upper chambers of the heart, the right atrium and the left atrium.

A balloon is then inflated to create a small communication between these two chambers. Blood can flow through this communication and this increased blood flow results in an improvement of symptoms. Only few patients with pulmonary hypertension are candidates for alcohol septal ablation. A group of cardiologist who are specialized in the treatment of this condition will evaluate and determine if the patient is a candidate.