General Information

What has gone wrong?

The heart consists of four chambers: two atria (upper chambers) and two ventricles (lower chambers).
Blood flows through the heart via a series of valves that regulate its movement and prevent the backward flow of blood. These valves are positioned between the chambers, ensuring blood moves in the correct direction.
Mitral valve disease affects the valve located between the left atrium and left ventricle. This valve can either leak (mitral regurgitation) or become thickened and stiff (mitral stenosis).
Both conditions interfere with normal blood flow, which can lead to a range of heart-related complications, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and heart failure.

Treatment for mitral valve disease typically involves open-heart surgery, though the specific approach depends on the severity of the condition.
In some cases, the surgeon may repair the valve by removing the damaged tissue and stitching the remaining parts back together. Alternatively, the surgeon may insert a ring around the rim of the valve to restore proper function and prevent further leakage.
In certain situations, a minimally invasive option called a mitral valve clip may be used. This small device is designed to reshape and improve the valve’s function, offering a less invasive alternative to full valve replacement.
The decision between repair and replacement depends on various factors, including the patient’s health, the extent of damage, and the surgeon's assessment.
Mitral valve surgery can greatly improve blood flow, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk of heart complications, enhancing the patient's quality of life.