Mitral Valve Surgery: Understanding Indications and Treatment Options

Mitral valve surgery is a critical intervention for patients suffering from various heart conditions that affect the mitral valve. This procedure is typically recommended when the valve is severely damaged and cannot function properly, leading to impaired heart function and overall health complications.

Common Indications for Mitral Valve Surgery

Rheumatic heart disease with a history of recurrent rheumatic fever remains one of the primary reasons for mitral valve surgery. This condition often leads to progressive valve damage, necessitating surgical intervention to restore normal cardiac function.

Infective endocarditis is another significant factor that may require surgical treatment. When infection damages the valve structure or causes complications like abscess formation, surgery becomes essential to prevent further deterioration and life-threatening conditions.

Structural and Functional Complications

Patients diagnosed with mitral stenosis accompanied by left atrial thrombus or systemic embolism are typically considered for surgical management. These complications increase the risk of stroke and other severe cardiovascular events, making timely intervention crucial.

When severe morphological changes in the mitral valve leaflets occur, and repair techniques such as valvuloplasty are no longer viable options, mitral valve replacement becomes the preferred course of action. This ensures proper blood flow regulation and prevents heart failure symptoms.

Recurrent and Combined Valve Diseases

Recurrent mitral stenosis after balloon or closed commissurotomy is another scenario where surgery is warranted. When nonsurgical methods fail to provide long-term relief, surgical correction offers a more durable solution.

Lastly, patients with combined mitral stenosis and regurgitation often require mitral valve replacement. This dual pathology significantly compromises cardiac efficiency and may lead to progressive heart failure if not addressed promptly.