Mitral valve

Abstract

The mitral valve is a complex apparatus consisting of the annulus, leaflets, chordae tendineae, papillary muscle, myocardium, and its attendant chambers, the left atrium and ventricle. The function and competency of the mitral valve apparatus is intricately dependent on the structural integrity and coordination of each and all of its components. Structural or functional abnormalities contributing to mitral stenosis or mitral regurgitation and post-procedural changes can be evaluated with transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). With advancements in technology and the evolution of three-dimensional (3D) imaging, TEE is a necessary tool and modality for evaluating the mitral valve perioperatively.