Mitral Valve Repair and Treatment

The mitral valve separates the left upper chamber (atrium) and left lower chamber (ventricle) of the heart. Mitral valve diseases include regurgitation and stenosis. Regurgitation occurs when the valve leaks and blood flows backward. Stenosis is a narrowing of the valve that restricts blood flow. Treatment for mitral valve disease depends on the type and severity of the disease.

In the past, open-heart surgery was the only option for patients with mitral valve disease. In recent years, less invasive techniques have become available. The Frankel Cardiovascular Center’s Comprehensive Heart Valve Program is recognized nationwide for excellence in mitral valve care. We offer all available treatment options in a patient-centered environment.

Mitral Valve Treatment at the Frankel Cardiovascular Center

Our program brings together a multispecialty team that provides:

  • Clinical trial access: We are frequently among the first medical centers to participate in new clinical trials. You can receive access to treatments and devices often not found elsewhere.
  • Tailored treatment plans: Our cardiovascular specialists coordinate to evaluate your symptoms and medical history. We determine the most appropriate options and discuss them with you to choose a treatment plan that’s right for you.
  • Experience in performing repeat procedures: Our doctors treat a high volume of patients who had a past mitral valve procedure or unsuccessful result elsewhere.
  • Excellence in echocardiography: Minimally invasive procedures require a skilled echocardiographer to help guide the intervention. The Frankel Cardiovascular Center has several highly skilled echocardiography imaging specialists who are critical members of our multidisciplinary teams.

National Recognition for Mitral Valve Repair and Treatment

Mitral Valve Repair Reference Center Award 2023 Seal

University of Michigan Health was among the first five medical centers in the U.S. to receive a Mitral Valve Repair Reference Center Award. This award was initiated by the American Heart Association and Mitral Foundation. It is based on our high volume of mitral valve procedures, superior clinical and patient outcomes, and commitment to following best practices.

In patients with severe mitral valve prolapse, our doctors recommend repairing the valve instead of replacing it. Patients with repaired mitral valves live longer and have fewer complications.

But many patients in the U.S. receive replacement valves instead. At the Frankel Cardiovascular Center, we repair 99% of those that can be repaired compared with 60% on average at other medical centers.

Mitral valve repair is a complex procedure requiring skill and experience. Not all medical centers have doctors trained in mitral valve repair. Of the recognized reference centers, U-M Health is the only one that has three Mitral Valve Repair Reference Surgeons.

Treating Mitral Valve Disease

Treatment options for mitral valve disease include:

Procedures to Address Other Heart and Valve Conditions

Mitral valve disease frequently occurs with other heart and valve conditions. For example, 30% to 40% of patients with mitral valve disease have atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat). It is also common to have both mitral valve and tricuspid valve disease.

Our doctors combine treatments, using minimally invasive approaches as much as possible. At the Frankel Cardiovascular Center, we have experts in all types of cardiovascular conditions. They work together to address all your heart conditions and reduce the need for multiple surgeries.

Make an Appointment

To schedule an evaluation with a Frankel Cardiovascular Center physician, call 888-287-1082. Or visit the Make a Cardiovascular Appointment page to learn what to expect when you call us.

Physicians: To refer a patient, call M-Line at 800-962-3555.