Does anyone know how / at what stage / by what diagnostics a surgeon determines what kind of treatment is required for mitral valve prolapse (MVP) / mitral ...Read more
Does anyone know how / at what stage / by what diagnostics a surgeon determines what kind of treatment is required for mitral valve prolapse (MVP) / mitral regurgitation (MR), meaning by what means does one know if valve replacement or repair is indicated and what kind of surgery is needed (open heart, minimally invasive, robotic, sternotomy, thoracotomy)? Thanks in advance.
Deena Z Hi Yitz, most mitral valves can be repaired, IF you go to a high-volume renowned surgeon. I had so m ... Read more
Deena Z Hi Yitz, most mitral valves can be repaired, IF you go to a high-volume renowned surgeon. I had so much calcification on my valve that the only option was through the sternum, but most people do not have this issue. Also, not all surgeons perform robotic or minimally invasive, so meet with one that does, such as at Cleveland Clinic, Mayo, Mass General etc. I was told it was time for surgery when my ventricle was slightly dilated.
Timothy Williams I started feeling palpitations and shortness of breadth. Also, left ventricle slightly enlarged. I ... Read more
Timothy Williams I started feeling palpitations and shortness of breadth. Also, left ventricle slightly enlarged. In regards to surgical approach, I ended up at institution that prefers sternotomy and has very high repair rate. 8 weeks after repair, I couldn’t be happier and almost feel like it never happened. Not sure if data exists between approach and results. I couldn’t confirm that MIS and/or Robotic had similar or better repair success. Did see where MIS benefited older patients who would have harder time recovering from sternotomy. I also think surgeons have preferred approach / experience that is most likely to influence their recommendation. That is possibly why folks suggest more than one opinion.
I was told it was time for surgery when my ventricle was slightly dilated.