The mitral valve controls blood flow through the left side of the heart. When it opens, the mitral valve allows blood to flow into the left ventricle - the heart’s main pumping chamber. When the left ventricle contracts, the mitral valve closes which prevents blood from flowing back toward the lungs.

Sometimes the mitral valve is abnormal from birth. It can also become damaged by infection,

with age, or from heart disease.

What is Mitral Valve Prolapse?

If the mitral valve does not seal completely, it may be secondary to a prolapse for floppy portion of the valve. Regurgitation or valve incompentence occurs when some blood flows back into your atrium. As a result, the heart works harder, leading to further valve damage and increasing the risk of heart failure and atrial fibrillation.

Mitral Valve Prolapse Treatment Options

Treatment options available to a patient with mitral valve prolapse depend on how severe your condition is. Some patients may not require any intervention while others may require medication. However, if the valve leakage becomes moderate to severe, your doctor may recommend mitral valve prolapse surgery. Essentially, there are two types of valve prolapse surgery.

•  Valve repair
        •  Reconstructs your own valve
        •  Uses your own tissues

•  Valve replacement
        •  Damaged valve is cut out
        •  Surgeon replaces damaged valve with new artificial valve

This information is not an alternative to direct communication with your health care providers. We hope it will help you to start a dialogue that will lead to the best option for you or your loved one.