It can be disturbing to find out that one has mitral valve issues, but there are effective treatment options available. Medication can alleviate painful symptoms, while specialised surgery can repair or replace the damaged mitral valves.
Sir Ganga Ram Hospital offers safe and effective mitral valve repair in India, supervised by experienced cardiac surgeon Dr. Sujay Shad. He is the best surgeon for the treatment of heart valve problems and explains everything about mitral valve problems, mitral valve repair surgery, and its results.
For more information about mitral valve repair read this detailed blog and one can also contact Dr. Sujay Shad at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital for detailed insights!
What is the Mitral Valve?
The mitral valve is a complicated structure that serves as a connection between the left atrium and the left ventricle, which are the two chambers of the heart. It allows blood to circulate between the chambers while preventing flow backwards.
The valve consists of two tiny tissue flaps that open and close with each heartbeat. When the left ventricle relaxes, the valve opens, allowing blood to flow into it from the atrium. The valve must close tightly when the ventricle contracts to prevent blood from seeping back into the atrium.
What are Heart Valve Issues?
Mitral valve problems impair the proper flow of blood through the heart. The heart has to work harder to circulate blood throughout the body and deliver oxygen to the organs and tissues. This can gradually damage the heart and lead to serious consequences.
The most prevalent mitral valve issues are:
- Mitral valve prolapse and regurgitation
- Mitral stenosis
Signs that show the requirement of mitral valve repair surgery:
Most people with mitral valve problems do not exhibit any symptoms; the valve disease may be detected during regular tests, health checkups, or treatment for another condition. A person with mitral valve problems may have symptoms such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Palpitations
- Chest pain
If there is a problem, such as congestive cardiac failure, it is possible to see:
- Breathing difficulties
- Coughing
- Blood in cough.
If left untreated, valve problems can proceed to heart failure and irregular heartbeats (such as atrial fibrillation). These conditions can cause death. However, many individuals with mitral valve problems exhibit no or few symptoms, particularly in the early stages.
Types of mitral valve problems
1. Mitral valve prolapse (floppy valve)
Mitral valve prolapse, also known as floppy valve, is one of the most common problems affecting the mitral valve in the human heart.
When this occurs, the valve does not fully open or close, resulting in no seal. If the condition worsens, it can lead to mitral valve regurgitation, a condition in which blood flows back and forth between the longs, causing issues such as heart dilation, weakening of the heart walls, and heart rhythm issues.
As per Heart Doctor in Delhi, the good news is that in the vast majority of conditions involving leaking valves because of degeneration, mitral valve repair surgery can effectively fix the problem.
2. Mitral valve stenosis
Stenosis is a term used to describe the narrowing of arteries and veins; mitral valve stenosis is exactly what it sounds like: the narrowing of the opening of the mitral valve, which is one of the four primary valves responsible for blood flow in the heart.
Stenosis of the mitral valve can cause high blood pressure and breathing difficulties, so it should be treated, especially in elderly patients, to avoid consequences from other medical conditions.
Diagnosis of Mitral Valve Problems
If a person is concerned about their heart health, schedule an appointment with a doctor or a specialist cardiologist. Experienced doctors can diagnose valve problems by listening to the heart using a stethoscope. If a person has mitral valve issues, they may notice abnormal sounds such as clicks and murmurs. If a doctor suspects a mitral valve problem, they may suggest diagnostic testing like:
Echocardiography:
The ‘echo’ test is an ultrasound of the heart. A probe emits sound waves that bounce off the heart’s structures. It generates moving images of the heart and can show abnormalities with the mitral valve, such as whether it is opening appropriately, if blood flows backwards, or if the valve bulges back into the atrium as it closes.
- Electrocardiogram: An electrocardiogram (ECG) records and prints a trace of the heart’s pace, rhythm, and electrical activity. It can show cardiac rhythm problems, such as atrial fibrillation, which is more likely when one has valve problems.
- Transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE): A specialised echocardiogram that examines the heart from within the oesophagus. The probe allows for a closer examination of the mitral valve, providing precise information about its structure and function.
The mitral valve is one of the most susceptible to problems. Valve problems occur when a valve is unable to function effectively due to disease, injury, or age-related deterioration.
Dr. Sujay Shad at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi is the most trusted and best heart doctor in Delhi. With decades of experience in these cardiac surgeries, he ensures optimal surgical results without significant financial commitment. So, don’t hesitate and schedule your consultation today about mitral valve repair surgery!
