Our Summary
This research paper discusses a less invasive method for treating diseases of the mitral valve, a valve in the heart that ensures blood flows in the right direction. It involves using a device called Mitraclip, which is a safe option for patients who are high-risk or unable to undergo open heart surgery. The use of echocardiography, which is a type of ultrasound that shows images of the heart, is crucial in this procedure. It helps doctors understand the structure of the mitral valve, determine the severity of the disease, choose the right patients for this treatment, guide them during the procedure and check on patients after the procedure.
FAQs
- What is percutaneous intervention for mitral valve disease?
- What role does echocardiography play in the process of mitral valve repair?
- What is the purpose of using a MitraClip in mitral valve repair?
Doctor’s Tip
A doctor may advise a patient undergoing mitral valve repair with Mitraclip to ensure they have regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor their progress and overall heart health. They may also recommend making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking to support the success of the procedure and improve overall heart function.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for mitral valve repair with techniques such as edge-to-edge leaflet plication with Mitraclip are those with primary or secondary mitral valve diseases. These patients may have severe mitral regurgitation and may be considered high risk or inoperable candidates for open surgical repair. Echocardiography is essential for patient screening, evaluation of mitral valve anatomy, and quantification of mitral regurgitation. Transesophageal echocardiography plays a crucial role in guiding the procedure and evaluating the results post-procedure.
Timeline
Before Mitral Valve Repair:
- Patient presents with symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations.
- Patient undergoes echocardiogram to evaluate the severity of mitral regurgitation and the anatomy of the mitral valve.
- Patient is evaluated by a multidisciplinary heart team to determine the best treatment option.
- If deemed a suitable candidate, patient undergoes pre-procedural testing and preparation.
After Mitral Valve Repair:
- Patient undergoes percutaneous edge-to-edge leaflet plication with Mitraclip under transesophageal echocardiography guidance.
- Post-procedure, patient is monitored in the cardiac care unit for complications such as bleeding or arrhythmias.
- Patient undergoes follow-up echocardiography to assess the effectiveness of the repair and the reduction in mitral regurgitation.
- Patient undergoes cardiac rehabilitation to improve heart function and overall health.
- Patient is followed up regularly by their cardiologist to monitor their progress and manage any potential complications.
What to Ask Your Doctor
- What is the underlying cause of my mitral valve disease?
- What are the risks and benefits of mitral valve repair surgery versus percutaneous intervention with Mitraclip?
- Are there any specific criteria that make me a better candidate for one type of treatment over the other?
- How many mitral valve repair procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
- What is the recovery process like after mitral valve repair surgery or percutaneous intervention?
- How long can I expect the results of the mitral valve repair to last?
- Are there any lifestyle changes or medications I should consider after the procedure?
- What are the potential complications or side effects of mitral valve repair?
- How frequently will I need follow-up appointments or monitoring after the procedure?
- Are there any alternative treatment options for my mitral valve disease that I should consider?
Reference
Authors: Aman E, Smith TW. Journal: J Echocardiogr. 2019 Jun;17(2):53-63. doi: 10.1007/s12574-019-00417-0. Epub 2019 Feb 15. PMID: 30771213