Mitral valve repair is a surgical medical procedure that is performed to treat a malfunctioning or damaged mitral valve in the heart. The mitral valve is one of the four valves present in the heart, responsible for regulating blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle. This valve consists of two flaps or leaflets that open and close in a coordinated manner to ensure an efficient flow of blood through the heart.
Mitral valve repair aims to preserve the function and structure of the valve rather than replacing it with an artificial valve. The procedure involves several techniques that may include reshaping, repositioning, or resizing the damaged valve. It can also involve repairing or replacing the supporting structures such as the chordae tendineae or the mitral annulus while maintaining the native valve. In some cases, additional procedures may be performed, such as removing calcium deposits, closing holes, or removing excess tissue.
The goal of mitral valve repair is to restore normal blood flow within the heart, prevent further degradation of valve function, and avoid the potential complications associated with valve replacement. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with certain mitral valve disorders, such as mitral valve prolapse or mitral regurgitation, where the valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to leak backward into the left atrium.
Mitral valve repair is considered as a preferred treatment option when feasible, as it offers several advantages including better long-term survival rates, lower risk of complications, preserved heart function, and avoidance of lifelong anticoagulant therapy. Successful mitral valve repair can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and restore normal heart function.
