Echocardiography in congenital mitral valve regurgitation--the liaison between cardiologist and surgeon

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Developmental Biology
• Pediatric Medicine

Background:

• Congenital heart diseases are cardiac anomalies present at birth, originating during embryonic development.
• Congenital mitral valve regurgitation (MVR) is a rare condition affecting infants and children, frequently co-occurring with other cardiac lesions.
• The mitral apparatus often involves multiple components in congenital MVR, complicating diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the challenges in determining the true incidence of congenital mitral valve regurgitation.
• To highlight the utility of the Carpentier classification for congenital mitral valve disease.
• To emphasize the benefits of a contemporary anatomic classification for diagnosis and interdisciplinary communication.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on congenital mitral valve regurgitation.
• Analysis of classification systems for congenital mitral valve disease, including Carpentier's functional classification.
• Discussion of diagnostic challenges and the role of anatomic classification.

Main Results:

• The precise incidence of congenital MVR is difficult to ascertain, estimated between 0.21-0.42% of all mitral regurgitations.
• Isolated congenital MVR is uncommon, with up to 60% of cases involving other cardiac anomalies.
• Anatomic classification offers improved diagnostic consistency and better communication between cardiologists and surgeons compared to functional analysis alone.

Conclusions:

• Congenital mitral valve regurgitation is a complex condition requiring precise diagnostic approaches.
• The Carpentier classification provides a functional framework, but anatomic classification enhances diagnostic accuracy and observer agreement.
• Improved classification systems are crucial for effective management and surgical planning in congenital MVR.