Innovative Approaches to Mitral Valve Repair and Replacement

Abstract

Mitral valve disease is the most common valvular disorder worldwide. Mitral stenosis rates have been declining, but mitral regurgitation remains the most common valvular disease in the United States. Medical therapy has a limited role in the treatment of mitral valve disorders, and surgery with either valve repair or replacement remains the mainstay of treatment. A thorough understanding of the complex mitral valve apparatus, pathophysiology of the valve, echocardiographic findings, and grading classification of regurgitation and stenosis are all essential to guiding optimal patient management and, ultimately, surgical care.