Objective To evaluate the effects of percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV) on repeated rheumatism attacks after continual anti rheumatic treatment in vain over a long period of time.Methods 23 cases received treatment by PBMV and follow up visits were performed.Results After operation,patients' cardiac function and their physique were improved obviously and the activity of rheumatism ceased after routine anti rheumatic treatment and prevention of streptococcal infection.Follow up visits for 36～81 months showed that mitral re stenosis occurred to only 2 patients.Conclusion Patients with mitral stenosis whose rheumatism attacks repeatedly in spite of longterm anti rheumatic treatment may be treated with PBMV first and then given anti rheumatism.In this way,a better curative effect can be obtained.