Abstract
Mitral valve (MV) repair for mitral regurgitation (MR) due to posterior
leaflet (PL) prolapse is achieved nowadays with a great success rate and
a good survival, similar, in certain subgroups. In this paper, Sakaguchi
et al describe their results in two groups of patients with PL prolapse.
Some patients underwent resection (resection group) and others chordal
replacement with/out limited resection (respect group). Results were
similar in terms of survival and MR recurrence. Our goal is to
eliminate, as much as possible, MR when a patient with degenerative MR
is operated on. Reduction of the mitral orifice and consequently an
increase of the transmitral gradient is the rule. MV repair for
degenerative MR provides great results, but there is not a single
surgical technique. A close evaluation of the anatomical findings will
allow us to choose the best strategy for the individual patient. An open
mind is the most important characteristic that a surgeon should have to
repair a prolapsing PL without residual regurgitation and dangerous
gradients.