Mitral Valve Video Series: Day 6
The Art and Science of Mitral Valve Repair – A Surgeon’s Perspective
Have you ever wondered how heart surgeons ensure a mitral valve repair will stand the test of time? It’s a blend of precision, experience, and a bit of hydraulic engineering.
Here’s a fascinating insight: Mitral valve repair is like restoring a delicate piece of machinery. The key steps include:
- Re-attaching broken ‘strings’ (chordae) to restore proper leaflet movement
- Reshaping the valve with a band or ring to ensure a tight seal
- Testing the repair by filling the heart with saline solution
The crucial test? Surgeons look for an overlap of 0.8-1cm along the entire length of the valve leaflets. This seemingly small detail is the difference between a repair that lasts a few years and one that lasts a lifetime.
Stay heart-healthy,
Mr. Birdi
Cardiothoracic Surgeon
BMed Sci (Hon) BM BS FRCS (CTh) MCh
