Pulmonary Artery Stenosis | Narrowing of Arteries | MedStar Health

Narrowing of the artery that carries blood to the lungs

The pulmonary artery carries blood from the heart to the lungs to get oxygen. Pulmonary artery stenosis occurs when this artery is too narrow, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood through the lungs. It’s usually the result of a congenital heart defect, meaning you were born with it, but it also can develop later in life as a result of a genetic abnormality or infection.

People with pulmonary artery stenosis often were born with other heart problems. Our Adult Congenital Heart Center treats and manages complex heart conditions present from birth.

What are the symptoms and complications of pulmonary artery stenosis?

Pulmonary artery stenosis is rare in adults and, if mild, may not cause symptoms. The most common symptom is a heart murmur, but you may also experience:

Tests

Diagnosing pulmonary artery stenosis is the first step to developing a treatment plan. Our specialists may recommend one or more diagnostic and imaging procedures.

Cardiac Catheterization

Cardiac catheterization is a minimally invasive way to diagnose and treat a variety of heart and vascular conditions by guiding thin, flexible tubes called catheters through blood vessels to problem areas.

Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan

The cardiac computed tomography scan, or cardiac CT, uses X-rays to create three-dimensional images of your heart and blood vessels.

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of your heart.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An electrocardiogram, also known as an ECG, measures the heart’s electrical activity.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging, better known as cardiac MRI, is a combination of radio waves, magnets and computer technology to create images of your heart and blood vessels.

Treatments

Your doctor will work with other specialties to determine the best treatment plan for your unique condition.

Balloon Valvuloplasty

Balloon valvuloplasty improves blood flow through the heart to the lungs and body by opening a stiff heart valve.

Pulmonary Valve Repair and Replacement

Pulmonary valve repair and replacement procedures include minimally invasive and traditional surgery as well as several types of replacement material.

Additional information

Adult Congenital Heart Center

When you’re born with a heart problem, you may need complex care throughout your life. Our experts tailor this specialized care to your unique needs.

Ask MedStar Heart & Vascular Institute

Have general questions for our heart and vascular program? Email us at AskMHVI@medstar.net. If you have clinically-specific questions, please contact your physician’s office.