Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair in San Diego

Name: Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair
Brand: San Diego Cardiac Center
Rating: 3.8 (62 reviews)

Advances in heart treatments make it possible to repair a faulty heart mitral valve with minimally invasive treatment. Some patients are not safe to undergo a more invasive procedure and can achieve healthier heart function with TMVR, or “transcatheter mitral valve repair.”

Another option is placing a MitraClip, an FDA-approved device that can resolve the most common types of mitral valve leakage. When invasive open-heart surgery is not a safe option, this groundbreaking procedure can correct the problem and allow you to live a happier, healthier life.

How Does MitraClip Work?

The MitraClip device is crafted from metal and polyester, designed to resolve the symptoms associated with mitral valve regurgitation – a condition in which the blood flows backward. If not corrected, this condition can eventually lead to heart failure, and the MitraClip has proven to be an excellent way to resolve this condition.

The MitraClip device is implanted with a catheter that is threaded through a vein until reaching the damaged heart valve. It is then carefully positioned, joining the two portions of the valve, significantly reducing or stopping the backward flow of blood entirely. This option makes it possible to repair the mitral valve without the need to undergo open-heart surgery.

Many people suffer from a condition in which the mitral valve does not function properly. When the condition can be resolved without open-heart surgery, avoiding the risks associated with an open heart bypass machine, it is safer for the patient and brings about improved health with less risk.

Two Options for Mitral Valve Replacement: TMVR and MitraClip

At San Diego Cardiac Center, we perform two minimally invasive corrective procedures for a leaking mitral valve, either MitraClip or TMVR. After evaluating your condition, your health history, and other factors, we can advise you of the option that is best suited to you.

TMVR: What is It?

TMVR is a minimally invasive surgery for patients who have undergone open-heart surgery in the past, and the valve is now failing. Rather than performing another open-heart procedure, the failing mitral valve can be replaced with a TMVR valve. This procedure involves threading a catheter through a vein until the damaged mitral valve is reached and replacing the valve that has stopped functioning correctly, allowing you to avoid another open-heart procedure.

What to Expect in Your MitraClip Procedure

The damaged mitral valve is accessed with a thin, flexible tube, or catheter, which is guided through your leg vein until it reaches the damaged valve. The small clip is then implanted to help the valve close as it should. MitraClip placement is a minimally invasive procedure that takes about one to three hours to complete and allows you to return home after only a few days in the hospital. You will notice that you feel stronger and better very quickly after this groundbreaking procedure.

If placing a MitraClip is determined to be the ideal option for you, at San Diego Cardiac Center, we will ensure you understand everything about the procedure and recovery, so you are confident and not anxious during the procedure. You will not experience any pain as you will have intravenous sedation or general anesthesia.

What to Expect with a TMVR Procedure

A TMVR procedure can be performed on patients who are not good candidates for a surgical mitral valve replacement. You will be under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation during the surgery. Our specialist will insert a thin, flexible catheter into the femoral vein in your groin, guided by advanced imaging technology. The compressed heart valve on the catheter is then positioned inside your mitral valve, after which it is expanded, secured in place, and the catheter is then removed. You should plan on three to five days for recovery under hospital care.