Percutaneous mitral valve repair (MitraClip)

Which patients are targeted for percutaneous mitral valve repair?

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MitraClip is FDA-approved for patients with mitral valve regurgitation who are at high risk of complications with open-heart surgery. It is the technique of filling in the mitral valve leaflets using a special clip. The procedure is guided by transesophageal ultrasound and involves the insertion of a catheter into the groin.

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What is mitral valve regurgitation?

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Mitral regurgitation is a disease of the mitral valve of the heart. It can be degenerative (DMR) or functional (FMR). It is characterised by the inability of the mitral valve to close properly, resulting in blood leaking in the opposite direction to normal. As a result, an extra load is created on the heart's work.

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The best treatment approach depends on many factors. A complete cardiac check-up is essential, including an echocardiogram and a CT scan. 

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If you have mitral regurgitation and are at high risk of complications for heart surgery because of your age, health problems or other factors, the best treatment option is the FDA-approved percutaneous mitral valve repair (MitraClip), an invasive procedure that carries fewer risks than open-heart surgery. 

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How is the MitraClip positioned?

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• The MitraClip is placed under general anaesthesia. 
• A catheter is inserted through the femoral vein and, guided by imaging techniques, reaches the heart and, more specifically, the mitral valve. 
• The MitraClip is positioned in such a way that it allows the mitral valve to close properly, preventing blood from flowing to the opposite side. This is achieved by filling in the mitral valve leaflets.
• For best results, more than one MitraClip may need to be fitted.

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How long will I have to stay in hospital?

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After the procedure, you will spend the night in hospital and will probably go home the next day.

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Why should not one overlook mitral valve regurgitation?

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Severe mitral valve regurgitation can lead to the development of pulmonary hypertension and atrial fibrillation. It is often accompanied by symptoms of heart failure, such as:

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• Fatigue
• Dyspnea
• Pulmonary edema 

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At the "Agios Lukas" Clinic, the method has been applied for more than 8 years and more than 100 mitral repairs (MitraClip - Pascal) have been performed. The immediate and long-term results of the method are excellent.

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