Percutaneous Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty (BMV), also known as balloon mitral valvotomy or balloon valvuloplasty, is a preferred non-surgical treatment for mitral valve stenosis. This condition involves narrowing of the mitral valve, which restricts normal blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. BMV is a safe and effective procedure that helps restore proper blood flow and reduces symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeat.
What is Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty?
Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive cardiac procedure designed to widen a narrowed mitral valve. It involves using a thin, flexible catheter with a balloon at the tip, which is guided through the blood vessels and positioned inside the mitral valve. Once in place, the balloon is rapidly inflated to stretch and separate the valve leaflets, allowing for improved blood flow through the heart.
Why is Balloon Valvuloplasty Performed?
Primary Indication: Mitral Valve Stenosis
BMV is primarily indicated for treating mitral valve stenosis, which is the narrowing of the mitral valve due to fusion or stiffening of the valve leaflets. It helps alleviate the obstruction and reduces the pressure on the left atrium and lungs.
Ideal Candidates for BMV
This procedure is generally recommended if:
- You have moderate to severe mitral stenosis
- You experience symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, or chest discomfort
- Your mitral valve leaflets are relatively pliable and not heavily calcified
Additional Scenarios
Your doctor may also suggest BMV if:
- You are pregnant or planning pregnancy
- You are preparing for non-cardiac surgery
- You have pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs)
Note: BMV is not suitable if you have a blood clot in the left atrium, moderate to severe mitral regurgitation, or extensive calcification of the valve.
How is Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty Performed?
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A catheter is inserted through a blood vessel in the groin or arm.
- It is guided into the right atrium of the heart.
- A small hole is created in the septum (wall between the right and left atria).
- The catheter is advanced into the left atrium and across the mitral valve.
- The balloon is inflated and deflated multiple times to open the narrowed valve.
- After achieving the desired opening, the balloon is deflated and catheter removed.
- A dressing is applied to prevent bleeding at the insertion site.
Anesthesia and Recovery
- Typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation
- Hospital stay is usually short, with quicker recovery compared to open-heart surgery
Effectiveness of Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty
BMV has a high success rate, with 80–95% of patients experiencing immediate symptom relief and improved heart function. Although it does not cure the underlying cause of valve stenosis, it significantly improves quality of life by:
- Reducing pressure in the left atrium
- Alleviating symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue
- Improving oxygenation and reducing lung congestion
Benefits of BMV Over Surgical Options
- Minimally invasive approach
- Faster recovery time
- Lower risk of complications
- Often performed as a day-care procedure
- Suitable for patients who are not ideal candidates for surgery
Risks and Limitations
While BMV is generally safe, some potential risks include:
- Bleeding at the catheter insertion site
- Valve leakage (mitral regurgitation)
- Blood clots or stroke
- Rare need for emergency surgery
Final Thoughts
Percutaneous Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty is a proven, reliable, and effective treatment for selected patients with mitral valve stenosis. It offers long-term relief from symptoms and improves heart function without the need for open-heart surgery.
If you’ve been diagnosed with mitral valve stenosis, consult your cardiologist to discuss whether balloon mitral valvuloplasty is the right option for you.
