Mitral valve repair is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting a malfunctioning mitral valve, which is crucial for regulating blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. The mitral valve can become damaged due to various conditions such as mitral regurgitation, where the valve does not close properly, or mitral stenosis, where it becomes narrowed and restricts blood flow. During mitral valve repair, surgeons employ techniques to restore the valve's proper function, which may include reshaping the valve's leaflets, tightening or reinforcing the valve's supporting structures, or repairing or replacing the valve's annulus. The goal is to improve the valve's ability to open and close correctly, thereby enhancing blood flow and reducing symptoms associated with valve dysfunction. Symptoms that may indicate the need for mitral valve repair include shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, fatigue, irregular heartbeats, and swelling in the legs or abdomen. Patients might also experience chest pain or a sensation of palpitations. If left untreated, severe mitral valve issues can lead to complications such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension. Mitral valve repair aims to alleviate these symptoms and restore normal heart function, which often leads to a significant improvement in quality of life. Following the procedure, patients may experience a period of recovery, but most see a reduction in symptoms and an improvement in overall heart health and functionality.
