Mitral valve repair refers to the correction of abnormalities in the valve located between the left atrium and the left ventricle. These abnormalities often arise from rheumatic, degenerative, or ischemic diseases.
Mitral Stenosis:
Mitral stenosis occurs when adhesions, thickening, or shortening of the valve chords cause the valve opening to narrow. This results in insufficient blood flow to the left ventricle and backward flow of blood into the left atrium. Symptoms in patients may include shortness of breath and fatigue.
Mitral Regurgitation:
Mitral regurgitation occurs when the valve does not close completely, causing some blood to flow back into the left atrium and lungs instead of being pumped out to the body. This leads to insufficient blood flow to the body and enlargement of the heart chambers.
Mitral valve repair is often preferred over mitral valve replacement because it preserves the patient’s own valve tissue. This approach requires less use of blood thinners post-surgery and reduces the risk of valve-related infections. The repair can be performed through open-heart surgery or minimally invasive techniques using small incisions under the armpit or breast.
