Surgeon Q&A: Mitral Regurgitation after a Mitral Valve Repair

Can a mitral valve leak after surgical repair, and should patients be concerned if regurgitation remains? In this educational video, Dr. Marc Gerdisch, Director of Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery at Indiana University Health, answers an important patient question about mitral valve leakage following surgery. Dr. Gerdisch explains how the complexity of the procedure, the portion of the valve being repaired, and the surgeon's approach can influence the success and long-term durability of a mitral valve repair.

Dr. Gerdisch also discusses clinical findings showing that approximately 5% of patients may have mild regurgitation immediately following an otherwise successful mitral valve repair. While some patients may experience progression of leakage over time, the likelihood of requiring another operation remains relatively low for many patients. He explains why moderate regurgitation immediately after surgery deserves greater attention, how the structure and mobility of the valve leaflets influence repair durability, and what patients should understand about the potential need for future treatment. (Video posted on October 29, 2026)