Our Summary

This research paper discusses the increased use of a non-invasive heart procedure called mitral valve transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) for severe heart valve leakage. To make sure the right patients are chosen for this procedure, the research center has started using a heart and lung exercise test (CPET). The CPET can help doctors diagnose and predict the future health of patients with severe heart valve leakage who are undergoing this non-invasive repair. The paper suggests that the exercise test, along with timely heart scans, should be a standard part of the process for all patients undergoing this procedure, both before and after the operation.

FAQs

  1. What is the mitral valve transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) procedure?
  2. How does a heart and lung exercise test (CPET) help in treating severe heart valve leakage?
  3. Should patients undergoing the TEER procedure have a CPET and heart scans both before and after the operation?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about mitral valve repair is to follow a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to improve overall heart health and support the success of the procedure. It is also important for patients to attend regular follow-up appointments and communicate any symptoms or concerns to their healthcare provider.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for mitral valve repair are those with severe heart valve leakage, also known as mitral regurgitation. These patients may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, palpitations, and swelling in the legs and abdomen. Mitral valve repair is often recommended for patients who are at high risk for surgical intervention or who may not be good candidates for open-heart surgery.

Additionally, patients who are relatively young and healthy, have good overall heart function, and have a structurally normal mitral valve are also good candidates for mitral valve repair. Patients with certain underlying conditions such as rheumatic heart disease, endocarditis, or congenital heart defects may also benefit from mitral valve repair.

Overall, the decision to recommend mitral valve repair is based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s overall health, the severity of their condition, and their individual risk factors. The use of tools such as a heart and lung exercise test can help doctors determine the best course of treatment for each patient.

Timeline

Before mitral valve repair:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with severe heart valve leakage, specifically in the mitral valve.
  2. Patient undergoes various imaging tests, such as echocardiograms and cardiac MRI, to assess the severity of the valve leakage and determine the best course of treatment.
  3. Patient may undergo a heart and lung exercise test (CPET) to evaluate their overall cardiac function and predict their future health outcomes.
  4. Patient is scheduled for mitral valve repair surgery, which may be traditional open-heart surgery or the newer non-invasive transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) procedure.

After mitral valve repair:

  1. Patient undergoes mitral valve repair surgery, either through open-heart surgery or the TEER procedure.
  2. Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for any complications and to ensure proper healing.
  3. Patient may undergo rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and function post-surgery.
  4. Patient continues to follow up with their cardiologist for regular check-ups and imaging tests to monitor the success of the repair and overall heart health.
  5. Patient may be recommended to continue with lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, to maintain heart health and prevent future complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is mitral valve repair and how does it differ from mitral valve replacement?
  2. Am I a good candidate for mitral valve repair?
  3. What are the risks and benefits of mitral valve repair compared to other treatment options?
  4. What is the success rate of mitral valve repair for patients with my specific condition?
  5. What is the recovery process like after mitral valve repair surgery?
  6. Will I need to take any medications or make lifestyle changes after the procedure?
  7. How long will the effects of mitral valve repair last?
  8. What are the signs and symptoms to watch for that may indicate a complication after the procedure?
  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments and tests after mitral valve repair?
  10. Are there any restrictions on physical activity or diet that I should be aware of post-surgery?

Reference

Authors: Koh CH. Journal: Curr Probl Cardiol. 2023 Aug;48(8):101196. doi: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2022.101196. Epub 2022 Apr 8. PMID: 35398363