Patients experiencing dizziness during exercise or sudden movements may be facing a condition known as mitral valve stenosis. A common recommendation for this issue is a procedure called balloon mitral valvuloplasty, which aims to alleviate symptoms and improve heart function.
The mitral valve is a critical component of the heart that separates the left atrium from the left ventricle. It consists of two flexible flaps, referred to as leaflets, which open and close to regulate blood flow. In cases of mitral valve stenosis, these leaflets may thicken and stiffen, narrowing the valve and making it difficult for blood to flow properly. As a result, the heart must work harder, potentially leading to complications such as enlarged left atrium, abnormal heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation, and increased risk of blood clots.
Symptoms of mitral valve stenosis include dizziness, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and fatigue. Balloon mitral valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to address these symptoms. According to medical sources, if successful, it can reduce the necessity for more invasive surgeries like valve replacement, which typically involves longer recovery times.
During the balloon mitral valvuloplasty, patients receive an IV line to administer sedative medication and fluids. Although patients remain awake, they are sedated throughout the procedure. Vital signs and heart activity are monitored closely by the medical team.
The surgery begins with the insertion of a thin catheter into a vein, often through the femoral vein in the groin area. A local anesthetic is applied to manage discomfort at the insertion site. The catheter, equipped with a small balloon, is carefully guided to the mitral valve using imaging scans and contrast dye. Once positioned, the balloon is inflated to widen the valve, which may occur multiple times before it is deflated and the catheter is removed.
The entire procedure typically lasts about one hour, with patients usually remaining in the hospital for observation overnight. While balloon mitral valvuloplasty is considered less invasive than other surgical options, it is important to recognize that risks are associated with any surgical intervention.
Patients are encouraged to discuss these risks with their cardiologist to make informed decisions about their treatment options. Understanding the nature of mitral valve stenosis and the benefits and limitations of balloon mitral valvuloplasty can help individuals manage their health more effectively.
