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HEART SERVICES

Diagnosis & Treatment

Mitral Valve Regurgitation

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How is Mitral Valve Regurgitation Diagnosed?

Diagnosis

To confirm a diagnosis of mitral valve regurgitation, a healthcare provider will review your medical history, conduct a thorough physical examination, and listen to your heart using a stethoscope. Afterward, specific tests and procedures may be recommended to give your doctor important diagnostic information. 

These may include:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). Sensors that attach to the skin can detect and monitor the electrical signals generated by the heart. Doctors can see the pattern of your heartbeat to determine if there are any irregularities, such as arrhythmias, that may be related to mitral valve regurgitation.
  • Cardiac catheterization. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter can be inserted and guided through a blood vessel to the heart. Your healthcare provider will pump a dye through the tube that allows the structures of your heart to be viewed with greater clarity using X-rays. 
  • Echocardiogram. Using sound waves, a healthcare provider can observe a moving picture of your heart to view the structure of the mitral valve and the flow of blood.
  • Stress tests. To analyze heart activity, an ECG will be conducted while the patient walks on a treadmill or rides a stationary bike. This will allow doctors to detect symptoms of mitral valve regurgitation.
  • TEE. Also known as a transesophageal echocardiogram, this test can be recommended if there is a need for additional detail when viewing the structure of the mitral valve. A device called a transducer is inserted down the patient's esophagus (the tube that carries food and fluids from your mouth to your stomach). 
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). This test creates a detailed image of the heart by generating a magnetic field and radio waves. Your doctor can then analyze the image to gauge the severity of the case.

How is Mitral Valve Regurgitation Treated?

Treatment

Treatments for mitral valve regurgitation will vary depending on the cause, severity, and sudden onset. Mild or moderate mitral valve regurgitation may not need treatment. However, in some instances, your healthcare provider may recommend several different approaches based on your circumstances. 

Dietary and lifestyle changes

After consulting with your doctor, specific dietary and lifestyle changes may be recommended to address underlying factors related to mitral valve regurgitation. A heart-healthy, low-salt diet can help decrease your blood pressure and reduce stress being placed on the heart.  

Your doctor may recommend that you reduce your consumption of alcohol and caffeine. Doctors may also suggest changes to your exercise routine, especially if symptoms worsen during physical activity.  

Medication

  • ACE Inhibitors. These medications can help reduce the stress placed on the heart by relaxing blood vessels, resulting in lower blood pressure 
  • Blood thinners. Patients with atrial fibrillation due to mitral valve regurgitation may benefit from blood thinners. These can help prevent blood clots, which are more likely to occur if you have atrial fibrillation.
  • Medicines to slow heart rate. If mitral valve regurgitation causes atrial fibrillation , your doctor may prescribe medications to slow your heart rate or control its rhythm
  • Diuretics. These medications can help rid your body of excess fluids that may otherwise build up, worsening swelling and other symptoms

Surgical options

  • Mitral valve repair. If possible, the mitral valve will be repaired rather than replaced. The goal of the surgery is to restore the valve to its normal function. This can be done with open heart surgery, robotic surgery, or via a catheter up from the leg.
  • Mitral valve replacement. If repairing the mitral valve is not an option, mitral valve replacement may be necessary. Mitral valve replacement involves replacing the mitral valve with a mechanical alternative or an organic valve made of cow, pig, or human tissue. The type of valve a patient receives is based on individual factors such as age, willingness to take medications such as blood thinners (especially if man-made), other medical conditions, and lifestyle choices.
     

FAQs

FAQs

Mitral valve regurgitation often progresses slowly—it could be years before symptoms present themselves. However, in the case of acute mitral valve regurgitation, symptoms are often severe and appear suddenly. 

It is important to contact a doctor if you are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling of the legs or feet, heart palpitations, or heart arrhythmia.

Mitral valve regurgitation is the most common type of heart valve disease. It affects about 1 in 10 people above the age of 75. Approximately 4 million people in the United States have significant cases of mitral valve regurgitation. Speak to a doctor if you are experiencing symptoms to begin treatment promptly or learn more about measures to reduce your risk.

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Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Mitral Valve Regurgitation Treatment

At NewYork-Presbyterian, our dedicated providers understand the symptoms of mitral valve regurgitation and offer top-notch care and treatment services based on your personal needs. Schedule an appointment today with one of our experts.