MORPHO-FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF THE REGURGITANT MITRAL VALVE AS A GUIDE TO
REPAIR: ANOTHER POINT OF VIEW
Abstract
Based on Carpentier’s classification and principles, the techniques for
mitral valve repair continue to evolve. We herein report our experience
with the morpho-functional echocardiographic analysis of single mitral
leaflets, as different anatomic features, even if conflicting, may
coexist not only in the two leaflets, but in the same leaflet as well. A
classification is proposed, based on the length (normal, short, or long)
and mobility (normal, restricted, or excessive) of mitral leaflets. The
surgical techniques adopted for mitral valve repair are the direct
consequence of this analysis.