Introduction:
The mitral valve is the valve located between the left atrium and left ventricle (shown); the disease of the mitral valve can be due to regurgitation (leak) or stenosis (blockage). Mitral valve regurgitation, is when the flaps (leaflets) of the mitral valve do not close fully and blood does not maintain a one-way flow; leaking back into the atrium from the ventricle.
On the other hand mitral valve stenosis, is when the leaflets prevent blood from flowing through the valve; due to abnormal thickening, stiffness or even fusing together. Mitral valve disease can be treated by either repairing or replacing the valve.
How is it performed?
Both mitral valve repair and replacement can be surgically performed. This can be done through a conventional, open sternotomy or through Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS). Conventionally, the central chest bone is split (sternotomy) and the heart is stopped using a Heart-Lung bypass machine. The diseased valve is then either repaired or replaced using an artificial valve (ref. to page 14 for more about artificial valves), and the sternum is closed using steel wires that can remain in the body. However, Minimally Invasive mitral valve surgery is the preferred option around the world, which is discussed in detail overleaf.
Treatments:
Treatment for mitral valve disease depends on the severity of your condition. Doctors may recommend surgery to repair or replace mitral valves. Repair or replacement can be performed through an open sternotomy or minimally invasive (MICS) procedures.
In open surgery the central chest bone is split – sternotomy – and the heart is stopped with the support of a heart-lung bypass machine. The diseased valve is then replaced using artificial valves. The sternum is closed using steel wires that can remain in the body. However, minimal valve surgery is the preferred option around the world.
