At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mitral regurgitation, a condition characterized by the leakage of blood backward through the mitral valve each time the left ventricle contracts. Our team of experienced cardiologists and cardiac surgeons is committed to providing comprehensive care to patients with mitral regurgitation to improve heart function and quality of life.

Conditions Overview:

Mitral regurgitation occurs when the mitral valve, which separates the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart, fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward into the atrium during ventricular contraction. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention, as well as complications such as heart failure and arrhythmias.

Symptoms of Mitral Regurgitation:

The symptoms of mitral regurgitation may vary depending on the severity of the condition and can include:

• Fatigue and weakness, especially with physical activity
• Shortness of breath, particularly during exertion or when lying flat
• Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
• Swelling of the ankles, feet, or abdomen due to fluid retention (edema)
• Persistent cough, especially at night or when lying down
• Chest discomfort or pain, often resembling angina
• Reduced exercise tolerance and overall endurance

Diagnosis and Evaluation:

Diagnosing mitral regurgitation typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. These may include:

• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test that provides detailed images of the heart’s structure and function, allowing for the assessment of mitral valve anatomy, blood flow, and severity of regurgitation.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): A test that records the heart’s electrical activity and can detect abnormal rhythms or signs of heart enlargement.
• Cardiac MRI or CT scan: Imaging tests that provide additional information about the heart’s structure, function, and blood flow, helping to evaluate the severity of mitral regurgitation and assess for other cardiac abnormalities.
• Cardiac Catheterization: A procedure performed in a specialized cardiac catheterization lab to measure blood pressure within the heart and arteries, assess coronary artery disease, and determine the need for further treatment.

Treatment Options:

Treatment for mitral regurgitation depends on the severity of the condition, the presence of symptoms, and the patient’s overall health. Options may include:

• Medications: While there are no medications to reverse mitral regurgitation, certain medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers may be prescribed to manage symptoms, reduce fluid retention, and improve heart function.
• Mitral Valve Repair: A surgical procedure performed to reconstruct or tighten the mitral valve and restore proper function, often recommended for patients with severe regurgitation and good overall heart function.
• Mitral Valve Replacement: A surgical procedure performed to remove the damaged mitral valve and replace it with a mechanical or tissue valve, typically recommended for patients with severe regurgitation who are not candidates for repair.
• Transcatheter Mitral Valve Repair (MitraClip): A minimally invasive procedure that involves the placement of a small clip on the mitral valve to reduce regurgitation and improve symptoms, often recommended for high-risk patients or those who are not candidates for surgery.

Recovery and Management:

Following treatment for mitral regurgitation, patients will require close monitoring and ongoing medical care to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and optimize heart health. This may include:

• Regular follow-up appointments with a cardiologist or cardiac surgeon to assess heart function, monitor valve function, and adjust treatment as needed.
• Medication management to control symptoms, lower blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and manage other cardiovascular conditions.
• Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, heart-healthy diet, smoking cessation, and weight management to reduce the risk of disease progression and improve overall cardiovascular health.
• Education and support for patients and their families to help them understand the condition, recognize symptoms of complications, and adhere to treatment recommendations.

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, our dedicated cardiology team is committed to providing personalized and compassionate care for patients with mitral regurgitation. If you or a loved one is living with this condition, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team to explore treatment options and receive expert care and support.