Anatomy and pathophysiology of mitral valve

Abstract

The mitral valve is a bicuspid valve which separates the left atrium from the left ventricle. It opens during diastole and closes during systole to permit forward flow of blood through the heart. Mitral valve dysfunction can result in left atrial enlargement, arrhythmias, and symptoms of heart failure. Historically, cardiotomy has been the standard approach to the mitral valve. In recent years, however, new techniques have been used to access the mitral valve. These include percutaneous approaches for valve repair and even replacement. A successful mitral valve procedure, independent of approach, depends on understanding the anatomy and pathophysiology of the valve. This chapter addresses the anatomy of the mitral valve and surrounding structures as well as the common etiologies of mitral valve dysfunction.