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 Mitral Prolapse
Mitral valve prolapse is common and is the result of excessive excursion of one or both of the mitral valve leaflets. The prolapse itself is usually due to stretching and eventually rupture of the fine strand-like underlying support apparatus to the leaflets the chordae tendinae. This, in turn, will produce a leak through the mitral valve. The valve can usually be repaired at surgery with resection of the damages portion of the leaflet or by reconstructing the supporting chordae tendinae. The repairs are usually supported by a butressing 'annuloplasty ring'. Following repair the patient can usually return to full activity, frequently avoiding the use of anti-coagulants such as warfarin. The picture below show a typical mitral valve with posterior leaflet prolapse treated by repair with the addition of a supporting annuloplasty ring. The technique shown is that initially described by Alain Carpentier.
Reconstructive surgery of the mitral valve is one of my particular interests
Mitral Valve Repair
Alternative Repair Techniques
Following the initial descriptions of posterior leaflet repair alternatives have been described by Carpentier and others. The 'sliding plasty' has been devised to lessen the risk of excessive anterior movement of the the anterior leaflet of the mitral leaflet following repair (SAM) and the attendant risk of outflow tract obstruction.
Aortic Valve Surgery »
For patients undergoing aortic valvular surgery there is a choice of replacement valves each with differing advantages and disadvantages. This link documents Roy's journey from Dubai to London and through valve choices and the subsequent surgery for his abnormal aortic valve.
Other Valvular Conditions »
Many other valvular heart conditions are described in detail on the British Heart Foundation website. Try this link.....
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