Cardiology · Structural Heart
Balloon Mitral Valvotomy (BMV)
Reopening a rheumatic mitral valve — no surgery
Medically reviewed by Dr Kunal Ajay Patankar, DrNB (Cardiology)
What it is
Balloon Mitral Valvotomy treats mitral stenosis — a mitral valve narrowed, most commonly in India by rheumatic heart disease. A specially shaped balloon is inflated inside the valve, splitting the fused leaflets apart and restoring flow.
BMV is one of interventional cardiology's most elegant procedures: performed through a leg vein, it can transform a breathless young patient's life in under an hour, often postponing or avoiding valve replacement surgery altogether.
Who needs it
- Significant mitral stenosis with breathlessness or reduced exercise capacity
- Rheumatic heart disease with suitable valve anatomy on echo
- Young patients, and women planning pregnancy, where avoiding surgery matters most
- Recurrent stenosis after previous BMV, in selected cases
How it happens, step by step
1
Anatomy scoring
Echocardiography grades the valve's suitability — pliable, non-calcified leaflets respond best to balloon dilatation.
2
Trans-septal access
Through a leg vein, a controlled puncture across the atrial septum brings the catheter to the left atrium — the signature step of BMV.
3
Balloon inflation
The hourglass-shaped balloon is centred in the valve and inflated briefly, separating the fused commissures.
4
Result check
Pressures and echo confirm the valve area has improved and the valve does not leak significantly.
Recovery, honestly
- Often discharged within 24–48 hours
- Symptom relief is frequently immediate
- Continued rheumatic fever prophylaxis where indicated
- Annual echocardiographic follow-up
Common questions
How long do results last?
A good BMV result commonly lasts 10–15 years or more. If the valve re-narrows years later, repeat BMV or surgery remains possible.
Is BMV safe during pregnancy?
When severe mitral stenosis threatens a pregnancy, BMV can be performed with abdominal shielding, ideally in the second trimester — often dramatically improving safety for mother and baby.
Why not just replace the valve?
Valve replacement means open-heart surgery and lifelong anticoagulation (for mechanical valves). When anatomy is suitable, BMV preserves your own valve with none of that burden.
Wondering if Balloon Mitral Valvotomy is right for you?
Every heart is different. Bring your reports and questions — we'll map your options together.