Mitral Valve Reconstruction and Mitral Valve Replacement for Ischemic Mitral Insufficiency

Abstract

We conclude that patients with highly impaired left ventricular function and ischemic mitral insufficiency are at too great a risk for either valve reconstruction or replacement. Cardiac transplantation should be considered for this patient group. However, patients with ischemic mitral insufficiency and moderately impaired left ventricular function can undergo valve reconstruction or replacement with an acceptable prognosis. The goal of mitral valve reconstruction should be reducing mitral valve insufficiency to at least grade I. If this is not achieved, the prognosis after repair is worse than after valve replacement, therefore, the surgeon should replace the valve without delay.