Our Summary

This research paper explores two different surgical methods used to treat a common heart valve disease called “degenerative mitral valve disease.” This condition leads to a problem known as mitral regurgitation, where the heart’s mitral valve doesn’t close tightly enough, allowing blood to flow backward in the heart.

The two surgical methods discussed are the “French correction” and the “American correction.” The French correction involves extensive modification to the valve’s leaflets (the flaps that open and close to control blood flow), manipulation of the chords that support the leaflets, and a rigid reinforcement of the valve’s outer ring. In contrast, the American correction uses artificial chords, minimal leaflet modifications, and a flexible reinforcement of the valve’s outer ring.

Both methods aim to correct the malfunctioning valve and improve its function. The main goal is to ensure that the patient leaves the operating room without significant persistent mitral regurgitation. Both methods have proven to provide long-lasting results and satisfactory patient outcomes.

FAQs

  1. What is degenerative mitral valve disease?
  2. What are the differences between the “French correction” and the “American correction” methods of mitral valve repair?
  3. What are the requirements for achieving durable results and satisfactory patient outcomes in mitral valve repair?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about mitral valve repair is to follow post-operative care instructions closely, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and participating in cardiac rehabilitation if recommended. It is important to monitor for any signs of infection, such as fever or increased pain at the incision site, and to contact your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help support the long-term success of the mitral valve repair.

Suitable For

Patients with degenerative mitral valve disease causing mitral regurgitation are typically recommended for mitral valve repair. This includes patients with leaflet prolapse, annular dilatation, and other structural abnormalities of the mitral valve. Patients who are good candidates for mitral valve repair are those who do not have severe calcification or scarring of the valve leaflets, as these may not respond well to repair techniques. Additionally, younger patients with a longer life expectancy may benefit more from mitral valve repair compared to valve replacement, as repair can preserve native valve tissue and function. Ultimately, the decision to recommend mitral valve repair is based on the individual patient’s anatomy, overall health, and surgical risk factors.

Timeline

Before mitral valve repair:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations, and chest pain
  • Diagnostic tests such as echocardiogram and cardiac catheterization may be performed to assess the severity of mitral regurgitation
  • Patient may be prescribed medications to manage symptoms and prevent further damage to the heart

After mitral valve repair:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to repair the mitral valve, which may involve extensive leaflet resection, chordal manipulation, and annuloplasty
  • Post-operative care includes monitoring for complications such as infection, bleeding, and arrhythmias
  • Patient undergoes cardiac rehabilitation to regain strength and function
  • Follow-up appointments with the cardiologist and cardiac surgeon are scheduled to monitor the success of the repair and ensure long-term outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the underlying cause of my mitral valve regurgitation?
  2. What are the benefits and risks of undergoing mitral valve repair surgery?
  3. What specific surgical technique will be used for my mitral valve repair?
  4. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of improving my symptoms and overall heart function?
  5. What is the recovery process like after mitral valve repair surgery?
  6. How long will it take for me to fully recover and return to normal activities?
  7. What are the potential complications or risks associated with mitral valve repair surgery?
  8. Will I require any follow-up appointments or ongoing monitoring after the surgery?
  9. What lifestyle changes or medications may be necessary after mitral valve repair surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options for my mitral valve condition that should be considered?

Reference

Authors: Schubert SA, Mehaffey JH, Charles EJ, Kron IL. Journal: Surg Clin North Am. 2017 Aug;97(4):867-888. doi: 10.1016/j.suc.2017.03.009. PMID: 28728720