Rheumatic Heart Disease Mitral Stenosis: Effective Treatment Options

Rheumatic heart disease leading to mitral valve stenosis is a long-term complication that arises from acute rheumatic fever affecting the heart. This condition develops due to persistent inflammation and mechanical damage caused by turbulent blood flow, resulting in swelling, inflammation, and the formation of abnormal growths on the mitral valve.

Understanding the Progression of Mitral Stenosis

Over time, as the condition progresses, healing processes in the body lead to the deposition of platelets and fibrin, causing structural changes in the valve. These changes include leaflet thickening, scarring, calcification, and fusion at the edges of the anterior and posterior leaflets. Additionally, the chordae tendineae and papillary muscles may shorten and fuse, further impairing valve function and ultimately leading to a narrowed valve orifice and compromised opening and closing mechanisms.

Medical Management of Mitral Stenosis

Medical therapy focuses on improving cardiac function, alleviating symptoms, and preparing patients for potential surgical intervention. Treatment may include the use of diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to control heart rate, and anticoagulants to prevent blood clots, especially in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Surgical Interventions for Mitral Stenosis

When the condition is definitively diagnosed, surgical treatment is often recommended to improve long-term outcomes and slow disease progression. The two primary surgical options are mitral valve replacement and mitral valve repair. Valve repair aims to restore the function of the existing valve, while valve replacement involves substituting the damaged valve with either a mechanical or biological prosthetic.

Choosing the Right Treatment Approach

Early intervention is crucial in managing mitral stenosis effectively. Patients who receive timely treatment—whether medical or surgical—tend to experience better quality of life and slower disease progression. A personalized treatment plan should be developed in consultation with a cardiologist and cardiac surgeon based on the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health status.