Transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat mitral valve regurgitation, a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, causing blood to leak backward into the left atrium of the heart.
During a TMVR procedure:
Preparation: The patient is typically given sedation or anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. The procedure is often performed in a catheterization laboratory (cath lab) or hybrid operating room.
Insertion of the Device: A catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or wrist, and guided to the heart under X-ray or ultrasound guidance. A special device, such as the MitraClip®, is then delivered through the catheter to the site of the mitral valve.
Clipping of the Valve Leaflets: The MitraClip® device consists of a small clip that is attached to the leaflets of the mitral valve, reducing the amount of regurgitation by bringing the leaflets closer together. Multiple clips may be used to optimize the repair.
Assessment and Adjustment: The position and placement of the clips are assessed using echocardiography (ultrasound imaging of the heart). The clips may be adjusted as needed to achieve an optimal result.
Monitoring and Recovery: After the clips are successfully placed and adjusted, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. The patient is monitored closely for a short period before being discharged.
TMVR offers several advantages over traditional open-heart surgery for mitral valve repair, including shorter recovery times, reduced risk of complications, and the ability to treat high-risk patients who may not be candidates for surgery.