The mitral valve controls blood flow from the left upper chamber into the left lower chamber of the heart. If the valve is diseased, it can leak blood back into the heart (mitral regurgitation). This common condition is called mitral valve prolapse (MVP).
Rather than an open-heart mitral valve replacement, doctors can perform a repair using the MitraClip device. This minimally invasive procedure implants a tiny clip where the valve opens (leaflets). The clip holds the leaflets in place, fixing the valve and reducing mitral regurgitation (MR).
Our Structrual Heart team includes cardiologists, cardiac surgeons and electrophysiologists that work together to determine the best option for you. An appointment with a cardiovascular surgeon requires a referral from your cardiologist or primary care provider.
To schedule an appointment with one of our cardiac specialists, please call (615) 515-1900 or schedule online.
How the MitraClip procedure works:
- You will be placed under general anesthesia and your doctor will make a small incision.
- Your doctor will insert a small tube (about the size of a pencil) to deliver the MitraClip
- The delivery system will place the MitraClip above the leak and it will grasp the valve leaflets.
- Your MitraClip will immediately correct the valve structure and reduce blood back flow.
- Your doctor will make sure that the clip is in place and the leak has stopped before removing the tube.
