The mitral valve, located on the left side of the heart can become damaged for several different reasons. When it is damaged, it often allows blood to flow backwards into the atrium. When the mitral valve of the heart is damaged, minimally invasive mitral valve repair is an option that should be considered.
According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the causes of mitral valve damage are listed below:
• Mitral Valve Prolapse: The leaflets holding the mitral valve lose their shape and tension. The leaflets bulge back into the atrium. This prevents the valve from closing tightly.
• Damaged Tissue Cords: The cords that hold the valve stretch or tear, preventing the valve from closing properly.
• Rheumatic Fever: The mitral valve can be damaged when rheumatic fever is not properly treated. Rheumatic fever damages the heart in two basic ways. First, it damages the valve so it doesn’t shut properly. Second, the valve lining can become too thick causing it not to open all the way; thus, the flow of blood into the ventricle is hindered. This second condition is called stenosis.
• Endocarditis: The lining of the heart can become infected and cause damage to the valve.
• Wear and Tear: As individuals age, general wear and tear on the valve can weaken it.
• Previous Heart Attack: If there has been a heart attack in this area, it can affect the proper functioning of the mitral valve.
• High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure that goes untreated can cause the left ventricle to get larger and stretch the tissue around the valve.
• Congenital Defects: Sometimes a child can be born with a defective mitral valve.
If you have experienced any of these situations, you should consult with a heart doctor and explore whether minimally invasive mitral valve repair is right for you.