Our Summary

This research paper discusses a treatment for patients with moderate to severe leakage in their heart’s mitral valve. This treatment, called transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair, is less invasive than traditional surgeries. However, there are still some risks of complications. This paper stresses the importance of high-quality imaging before and during the procedure, to carefully select the right patients and ensure the procedure is successful. The authors provide a detailed guide on how to best use heart ultrasound (echocardiography) for this procedure.

FAQs

  1. What is transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair?
  2. Who are the ideal candidates for transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair?
  3. Why is high-quality periprocedural imaging important for transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about mitral valve repair is to ensure they undergo high-quality imaging before the procedure. This is important for optimal patient selection and procedural success. By having detailed imaging, the doctor can better assess the condition of the mitral valve and plan the repair accordingly. This can help reduce the risk of complications and improve the overall outcome of the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for mitral valve repair include those with moderate to severe or severe mitral regurgitation. These patients may also have symptoms of heart failure and may benefit from a minimally invasive treatment option such as transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair. However, it is important to note that the rate of procedural-related complications is not trivial, so high-quality periprocedural imaging is essential for optimal patient selection and procedural success. Patients who are good candidates for mitral valve repair may experience improved symptoms and outcomes following the procedure.

Timeline

Before mitral valve repair:

  1. Patient presents with symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as echocardiogram to confirm mitral regurgitation.
  3. Patient is evaluated by a cardiologist to determine the severity of the mitral regurgitation and assess the need for mitral valve repair.
  4. Patient may undergo additional tests such as cardiac catheterization to further evaluate the condition of the mitral valve and surrounding structures.
  5. Patient is referred to a cardiac surgeon for consideration of mitral valve repair.

After mitral valve repair:

  1. Patient undergoes transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair procedure.
  2. High-quality periprocedural imaging is used to guide the procedure and ensure optimal patient selection and procedural success.
  3. Patient is monitored closely post-procedure for any complications or signs of improvement in symptoms.
  4. Patient may be prescribed medications to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
  5. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with the cardiologist to assess the effectiveness of the mitral valve repair and monitor for any recurrence of symptoms.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the benefits of mitral valve repair compared to other treatment options?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with mitral valve repair?

  3. How experienced is the medical team in performing mitral valve repair procedures?

  4. What is the success rate of mitral valve repair in patients with similar medical history and condition?

  5. What is the recovery process like after mitral valve repair surgery?

  6. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or take medications after the procedure?

  7. How long will the effects of mitral valve repair last?

  8. Are there any specific follow-up appointments or tests that I will need after the procedure?

  9. What are the signs and symptoms that I should watch out for after mitral valve repair surgery?

  10. Are there any restrictions on physical activity or diet that I should be aware of post-surgery?

Reference

Authors: Ramchand J, Miyasaka R. Journal: Cardiol Clin. 2021 May;39(2):267-280. doi: 10.1016/j.ccl.2021.01.009. PMID: 33894940