What is balloon mitral valvulotomy? When is it indicated?

Verified by Dr. Sanjeevkumar Kalkekar, Sr. Consultant Cardiology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.

Balloon mitral valvuloplasty (BMV) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat mitral stenosis, a narrowing of the mitral valve. The mitral valve is one of four valves in the heart that controls unidirectional blood flow. Mitral stenosis can occur due to a variety of reasons, most common being rheumatic heart disease and can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain.

How is Balloon mitral valvuloplasty performed?

BMV is typically performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure, a thin catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the groin and guided to the mitral valve. A small balloon is then inflated inside the valve to stretch it open.

Consult our expert, Dr. Sanjeevkumar Kalkekar, Sr. Consultant Cardiology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.

Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.

When is Balloon mitral valvuloplasty indicated?

• BMV is a good option for people with moderate to severe mitral stenosis.

What are the benefits of Balloon mitral valvuloplasty?

• BMV is a safe and effective way to treat mitral stenosis.
• It is less invasive and non-surgical option and has a faster recovery time.
• BMV can also help to improve symptoms and quality of life.

What are the risks of Balloon mitral valvuloplasty?

The risks of BMV include bleeding, infection, and damage to the heart valves. However, these risks are relatively low at an experienced centre.

What is the success rate of Balloon mitral valvuloplasty?

The success rate of BMV is high. Over 97% of people who have BMV experience significant relief from their symptoms.

BMV is a safe and effective way to treat mitral stenosis. It is a good option for people with moderate to severe mitral stenosis who are not candidates for other treatments. BMV can help to improve symptoms and quality of life.

What are the contraindications for Balloon mitral valvuloplasty?

Though BMV is the treatment of choice for mitral stenosis, some conditions like calcified valves are not suitable for BMV. It may also cause wear and tear of the valves causing re-stenosis of the valves after 10-12 years.

Consult our expert, Dr. Sanjeevkumar Kalkekar, Sr. Consultant Cardiology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.

Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.