Summary
Mitral valve diseases (mitral insufficiency and mitral valve stenosis) are among the slowly progressive diseases. They often take years to manifest clinically and are often associated with bacterial infections and degenerative processes. In the long term, mitral valve disease leads to a reduced pumping capacity of the heart, which often manifests itself in the clinical appearance of shortness of breath and reduced exercise capacity.
Mitral valve disease can often be treated with drugs such as antihypertensives, frequency reducers and drainage products. However, if a surgical procedure is necessary, the aim is to repair or even completely replace the damaged valve or valve apparatus. Which procedure would be most suitable is usually decided after consultation with the respective cardiologist or heart surgeon.
The 10-year survival rate is very good with today’s surgical procedures, and allows patients to resume their daily activities unhindered. In very few cases, sudden death due to mitral valve disease can occur.
