Mitral valve disease refers to disorders of the mitral valve, which regulates blood flow between the left atrium and the left ventricle. These conditions include:
- Mitral stenosis — narrowing of the mitral valve opening, which obstructs normal blood flow.
- Mitral regurgitation (mitral insufficiency) — incomplete closure of the valve leaflets, leading to backward flow of blood into the left atrium.
Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms, restoring normal valve function, and preventing complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and thromboembolic events.
Symptoms of mitral valve disease
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or at rest.
- Palpitations or cardiac arrhythmias.
- Chest pain or a feeling of heaviness.
- Fatigue and general weakness.
- Swelling of the lower extremities.
- Dizziness or fainting episodes.
Causes of mitral valve disease
- Rheumatic heart disease. One of the most common causes of mitral stenosis or regurgitation.
- Congenital abnormalities. Structural defects of the valve present from birth.
- Infective endocarditis. An inflammatory condition affecting the heart valves.
- Age-related degeneration. Wear and tear of the valve associated with aging.
- Ischemic heart disease. Impaired blood supply to the myocardium may affect valve function.
Diagnostic methods for mitral valve disease
The following investigations are used to establish the diagnosis:
- Echocardiography (EchoCG). The primary method for assessing valve structure and function, and for detecting stenosis or regurgitation.
- Electrocardiography (ECG). Used to identify rhythm disturbances.
- Chest X-ray. Helps detect cardiac enlargement or pulmonary congestion.
- Cardiac catheterization. Allows measurement of intracardiac pressures and assessment of valve severity.
- Cardiac MRI. Provides detailed visualization of cardiac structures when additional clarification is required.
Treatment methods for mitral valve disease
Medical therapy. Prescribed to control symptoms and prevent complications:
- Diuretics to reduce pulmonary congestion.
- Anticoagulants to prevent thrombus formation.
- Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to control heart rate.
- Medications that reduce cardiac workload.
Minimally invasive procedures.
- Balloon valvuloplasty. Used in mitral stenosis to widen the valve opening.
Surgical treatment.
- Mitral valve repair. Performed in cases of regurgitation to restore valve function.
- Mitral valve replacement. Replacement of the damaged valve with a mechanical or biological prosthesis.
Rehabilitation.
After treatment, it is essential to follow medical recommendations, including lifestyle modification, dietary measures, and regular medical follow-up.
Advantages of mitral valve disease treatment in Belarus
In Belarus, treatment of mitral valve disease is provided in specialized cardiology centers using modern technologies and advanced medical equipment. Experienced specialists offer both medical management and complex surgical interventions, ensuring a high standard of care.
Regular follow-up with a cardiologist, adherence to medical advice, and lifestyle modification help reduce the risk of complications and improve the patient’s quality of life.
