A Simplified Approach to Degenerative Disease: Triangular Resections of the Mitral Valve

Background Only 40% of patients with mitral valve (MV) regurgitation undergo operative repair rather than replacement. Quadrangular resection combined with ring annuloplasty has been the most common method of repair for degenerative posterior leaflet disease. Techniques such as sliding annuloplasty and artificial chord usage have increased the complexity of repair. These techniques have been perceived to be difficult and have possibly reduced the incidence of MV repair. We present our experience with a simplified approach to MV repair utilizing a triangular resection and larger rings. Methods Retrospective review of all MV repairs over a 7-year period (1999 to 2006) revealed 154 patients who underwent triangular resection for degenerative disease. Patients who underwent ring annuloplasty without leaflet resection and patients who had artificial chords or quadrangular resections were excluded. Results Of 154 patients who underwent triangular resection, isolated posterior leaflet resection was performed on 130 patients. Isolated anterior and combined anterior and posterior leaflet triangular resections were performed on 16 and 8 patients, respectively. Thirty-day postoperative mortality was 0%. Five-year freedom from reoperation for recurrent mitral regurgitation was 99.0%. No patients who had intended leaflet resection were converted to MV replacement. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiogram revealed trace to 1+ mitral regurgitation. Mild systolic anterior motion was noted in 7.1% of cases initially, but resolved with volume loading in all. Conclusions Triangular leaflet resection of the mitral valve produces durable results and can be safely and efficiently performed with minimal morbidity and mortality. This technique should allow increased utilization of MV repair for degenerative disease.