Mitral regurgitation as a complication of MI: pathophysiology and nursing implications

Mitral regurgitation as a complication of myocardial infarction may be caused by papillary muscle dysfunction, papillary muscle rupture, or rupture of the chordae tendineae. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are necessary to reduce associated mortality and morbidity. The cardiovascular nurse is integrally involved in all phases of treatment for this condition. The pathophysiology, clinical course, and current treatment modalities utilized for postinfarction mitral regurgitation are described, enabling the cardiovascular nurse to develop a comprehensive plan of care.