Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2026

A Simplified Stepwise Approach to Echo Guidance during Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair
Published on: October 16, 2021
Percutaneous mitral repair with the MitraClip
F Maisano1, O Alfieri, G La Canna
1Cardiochirurgia, Ospedale San Raffaele, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano, Italia. maisano.francesco@hsr.it
Abstract:
Mitral regurgitation (MR) is associated with poor prognosis and high incidence of clinical events if left untreated. To reduce the invasiveness of the surgical approach, different types of trans-catheter procedures are becoming available. The MitraClip procedure (Abbott Vascular Inc. Menlo Park, CA) is yet the only available at the moment. The procedure is used to treat high risk surgical candidates with either functional or degenerative MR. Recent trials have shown that the procedure is safer than surgery, although less effective. Efficacy of the procedure depends on several factors, including patient selection, anatomy of the valve and the experience of the operators. However, when treating high risk patients a suboptimal repair obtained with low risk can be a acceptable outcome. In the future, novel devices, improved knowledge, more efficient imaging and transcatheter mitral prosthetic valve implantation may expand the indications to those patients currently not treated by MitraClip for anatomical unsuitability, as well as may improve the results both in term of early efficacy and long term durability.
Insights
Trans-catheter mitral valve repair using MitraClip is a safer alternative to surgery for high-risk patients with mitral regurgitation (MR). While less effective, it offers an acceptable outcome for complex cases, with future innovations promising broader applications and improved durability.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Mitral regurgitation (MR) significantly increases morbidity and mortality if untreated.
- Trans-catheter interventions are emerging as less invasive alternatives to traditional surgery.
- The MitraClip device is currently the sole trans-catheter option for MR treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the MitraClip procedure as a treatment for high-risk surgical candidates with functional or degenerative MR.
- To compare the safety and efficacy of MitraClip versus conventional surgical repair.
- To identify factors influencing the success of trans-catheter mitral valve repair.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent clinical trials comparing MitraClip to surgical mitral valve repair.
- Analysis of patient selection criteria, valve anatomy, and operator experience.
- Assessment of procedural safety and efficacy outcomes.
Main Results:
- The MitraClip procedure demonstrates a superior safety profile compared to surgery.
- Efficacy of MitraClip is found to be lower than surgical repair but can be acceptable in high-risk populations.
- Suboptimal repair in high-risk patients may be a viable outcome due to reduced procedural risk.
Conclusions:
- Trans-catheter mitral valve repair with MitraClip offers a safer option for high-risk surgical candidates with MR.
- Patient selection, anatomical suitability, and operator experience are critical for successful outcomes.
- Future advancements in devices, imaging, and trans-catheter valve implantation are expected to expand indications and improve long-term durability.
Related Concept Videos
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Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

