Mitral Clip

The valve that lies between the left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart is called the mitral valve. Blood is supposed to flow in one direction from the left atrium to the left ventricle, but if the valve’s flaps cannot close properly, some of the blood will flow back into the left atrium. This malfunction is called mitral regurgitation (MR). The failure of all the blood to move correctly through the heart diminishes optimal oxygenation to the rest of the body. The major symptoms of mitral regurgitation are tiredness and shortness of breath.

The type of treatment needed for mitral regurgitation depends on the severity of the condition. If severe MR is left untreated, irregular heart rhythm and possible heart failure are possible.

The MitraClip is a TMVR (Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair), a non-surgical alternative for patients with mitral valve regurgitation that is minimally invasive. This procedure is ideal for any patient who is not eligible for open-heart surgery. The MitraClip repair stops the mitral valve from leaking by placing small clip-like devices. The clips can be placed without stopping the heart or opening the chest.

Stanislaus Cardiology offers mitral clips for patients with mitral regurgitation.