About

The mitral valve is one of four heart valves that control blood flow in the heart, separating the left atrium from the left ventricle and facilitating blood flow between them.

Individuals with severe mitral valve conditions like regurgitation or stenosis and symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath may be suggested for mitral valve replacement surgery, which can be mechanical or biological.

###Signs and Symptoms

Mitral valve prolapse may not show symptoms for many, detectable primarily through an echocardiogram. Common symptoms include irregular heartbeat, tiredness, dizziness, and breathlessness.

Causes

Mitral valve prolapse occurs when heart valve leaflets are stretchy due to myxomatous valve disease affecting about 2% of individuals. This can be genetic or caused by certain health conditions like connective tissue disorders.

Risks Factors

Possible risks linked with mitral valve replacement surgery involve bleeding, infections, blood clots, stroke, and replacement valve malfunction.

###Diagnosis and Test

Mitral valve prolapse diagnosis involves a physical exam and listening to the heart with a stethoscope. Tests such as Echocardiogram, Chest X-Ray, Electrocardiogram, and Cardiac Catheterization may be performed to confirm mitral valve prolapse.

Treatment Procedure

Treatment for mitral valve prolapse hinges on the severity and symptoms. While some cases may not require specific treatment, others may necessitate medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes for management.

###Outcome and Recovery

Recovery from valve repair surgery generally takes 4-6 weeks.

Success Rate

The expected success rate of mitral valve surgery is approximately 95%.

Do's and Don't's

Do's:

·         Follow a heart-healthy diet

Don't's:

·         Avoid smoking!