Balloon Mitral Valvulotomy

Preparation

• The first step of the procedure is planning a consultation. Doctors will analyze your overall health by going through your medical history and conducting a physical examination. Based on these, further tests may be recommended, which include Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), to confirm the diagnosis and curate the best treatment plan.
• Once confirmed that you are eligible for Balloon Mitral Valvulotomy, doctors will explain the procedure to you and brief you about what to expect, and the pros and cons of the same.
• You will need to inform your doctor if you are allergic to any medication, have an existing heart condition, are undergoing other treatments, are taking any medications currently or suspect that you are pregnant.
• You will be required to fast for a couple of hours before the procedure. This is important as the procedure is done on an empty stomach to prevent nausea and vomiting.

What does the Procedure involve?

• The procedure can take anywhere between an hour or two. It involves the use of anaesthesia, to make sure that you do not feel any pain or discomfort. Your vitals will be taken and recorded.
• An intravenous line will be started to administer fluid and medication. Doctors will place tiny electrodes on your chest to assess your heart rate.
• You will be asked to lie down on the surgical table and the incisional site will be prepared. This is followed by making a tiny incision to introduce the sheath, to pave for introducing the catheter
• Using a thin guide wire, the catheter is slowly moved forward and guided towards the blocked section of the carotid artery. This is done using X-ray imaging guidance.
• In order to get a better view, doctors may use a contrast dye material, which is injected into the body, with the help of the catheter.
• This is followed by the administration of an embolic protection device or a tiny filter that helps to remove the unwanted substances that are scrapped off from the surface of the carotid arteries.
• The catheter has an inflatable balloon fitted on one of its ends. In case the blockage is stubborn, doctors may inflate the balloon to open the blocked artery and allow blood to flow more effectively.
• In some cases, doctors may even place a small metallic stent in the artery to offer enough support to alleviate the risks of restenosis.

What follows the Procedure?

• Patients generally need to stay at the hospital overnight. During this time, you will be keenly observed by our experts to make sure there are no complications.
• Soon after the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery room, from where you will be shifted to your room after gaining consciousness.
• To alleviate the risks of bleeding, you may be required to lie still for a couple of hours
• You will need to drink a lot of water to flush out the contrast dye. A normal diet can be taken soon after the procedure. However, light meals are advised.
• You will be required to come for regular follow-ups, which helps the doctors to keep a regular track of your prognosis.