Pediatric Balloon Valvuloplasty in Mumbai, India
Certain pediatric heart conditions, such as pulmonary valve stenosis or congenital narrowing of the aortic or mitral valve, can restrict blood flow, placing additional strain on a child’s heart. These conditions often lead to symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and poor growth. Balloon valvuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can effectively widen these valves, restore proper circulation, and delay or avoid the need for open-heart surgery.
“When done at the right time and with precise technique, balloon dilation can be a life-changing intervention for a child,” says Dr. Prashant Bobhate,a highly regarded pediatric cardiologist in Mumbai. He adds, “It offers rapid recovery and allows the heart to function more efficiently almost immediately.”
With over 12 years of experience, international training, and a patient-first philosophy, Dr. Bobhate offers expert care for children with valve conditions. He is well-known for his expertise in interventional procedures, such as pediatric balloon valvuloplasty, in Mumbai, India. Currently, he practices at the Children’s Heart Centre, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.
As Dr. Prashant Bobhate, a leading Pediatric Cardiologist in Mumbai, India, explains:
“Heart conditions in children are not always visible at birth, but early detection can be life-saving. A child’s heart health influences everything—from growth and development to learning and energy levels. Timely diagnosis and treatment ensure a healthier, more active childhood.”
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Which heart valve conditions can be treated without surgery? Here are the most common pediatric heart issues treated through balloon dilation.
Heart Conditions Treated with Balloon Valvuloplasty in Children
Pulmonary Valve Stenosis
A condition where the pulmonary valve is too narrow, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood to the lungs. Balloon valvuloplasty is often the first-line treatment for this condition.
Aortic Valve Stenosis (Selected Cases)
In some children, especially infants, a narrowed aortic valve can be opened using this procedure to improve blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.
Rheumatic Mitral Valve Stenosis:
Although less common, selected cases of mitral valve stenosis may be managed with pediatric heart valve dilation, depending on the valve anatomy.
Wondering if this procedure is right for your child? Here’s what specialists look for before recommending this treatment.
Who Is the Right Candidate for Balloon Valvuloplasty?
Children with moderate to severe narrowing on echocardiogram are considered.
These clinical signs may indicate that the heart is under strain and intervention is necessary.
The structure of the valve should be suitable for pediatric heart valve dilation without risk of severe leakage post-procedure.
Children who are stable enough to receive a catheter-based procedure without an immediate need for surgery.
Ideal candidates usually don’t require simultaneous surgical correction of other defects.
Can your child avoid open-heart surgery? Here’s how Dr. Bobhate utilizes catheter-based procedures to minimize risks and expedite recovery time.
Dr. Prashant Bobhate’s Minimally Invasive Approach
The procedure is performed through a thin catheter inserted via the leg, eliminating the need for surgical incisions or stitches.
Real-Time Imaging for Accuracy
Using echocardiography and fluoroscopy, the valve is precisely dilated under live imaging, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
Children typically experience minimal discomfort and are back home within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
This method has a quicker recovery time and fewer infection or complication risks compared to open surgery.
Balloon valvuloplasty can be repeated if the valve becomes narrower again in the future, providing a versatile treatment option.
Preparing your child for the procedure? Here’s what parents need to know to feel confident and ready.
Pre-Procedure Guidelines for Pediatric Balloon Valvuloplasty
Complete Diagnostic Testing
Before the procedure, your child will undergo an echocardiogram, an ECG, a chest X-ray, and blood work to confirm the diagnosis and assess their overall health.
Children are usually required to fast (no food or liquids) for 4–6 hours before the procedure, depending on their age and anesthesia plan.
Please share a complete medical history with the care team, including any known allergies and medications your child is currently taking.
The procedure is done under general anesthesia or conscious sedation—parents are informed about what to expect and how recovery will be.
Reassure your child with age-appropriate explanations. The team will help create a calm environment on the day of the procedure.
Why Parents Choose Dr. Prashant Bobhate for Pediatric Valve Procedures
Expertise Backed by Global Training
Trained in Canada and India, Dr. Prashant Bobhate has international standards of precision and care in every case.
Over 12 Years of Pediatric Cardiology Experience
With a decade-long track record in managing complex valve conditions in children, he offers both skill and clinical judgment.
Whenever possible, catheter-based treatments are selected to reduce pain, shorten recovery time, and decrease risk.
Parents are guided with empathy and clarity throughout the process, with all questions addressed in simple, reassuring language.
He works closely with pediatric cardiac surgeons, anesthesiologists, and critical care teams to deliver holistic, end-to-end treatment.
Practicing at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, he provides access to world-class technology and a dedicated pediatric cardiac ICU.
From babies to teens, thousands of children have successfully undergone valve procedures under his care, with follow-up care that fosters long-term trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is balloon valvuloplasty used for?
It’s used to widen narrowed heart valves and improve blood flow, often avoiding the need for surgery.
2. Is balloon valvuloplasty safe in children?
Yes. If done by an experienced pediatric cardiologist, it is safe with a low complication rate.
3. How long is the procedure?
Generally, between 1 to 2 hours, followed by an overnight hospital stay for observation.
4. Will my child eventually need surgery?
Not always. Most children do well with balloon dilation alone, although some will require future procedures as they grow.
5. Can the valve narrow again?
Yes, in some instances. Follow-up is necessary to check valve function as your child develops.
6. What are the indications that my child may need this?
Poor feeding, breathlessness, tiredness, heart murmur, or collapse may be signs of valve stenosis.
7. Does my child require medicine after the procedure?
Some children may need short-term medications, depending on their condition.