Transcatheter Mitral Valve Therapies in Patients with Mitral Annular Calcification

Patrick S Kietrsunthorn1, Fadi Ghrair1, Aaron R Schelegle1

  • 1Structural and Interventional Cardiology, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Carilion Clinic, 2001 Crystal Spring Road, Suite 203, Roanoke, VA 24014, USA.

Insights

Mitral annular calcification involves calcium buildup in the heart's mitral valve, potentially causing dysfunction and serious cardiovascular issues. Advanced imaging and new treatments are improving management of this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Biomedical Engineering

Background:

  • Mitral annular calcification (MAC) is a chronic degenerative process involving calcium deposition in the mitral valve annulus.
  • MAC can lead to mitral valve dysfunction, cardiovascular morbidity, and mortality.
  • Increasing recognition of MAC is linked to advanced diagnostic imaging and an aging population.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the challenges and current management strategies for mitral annular calcification.
  • To highlight the impact of MAC on cardiovascular health.
  • To discuss emerging transcatheter technologies for MAC treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of diagnostic imaging modalities for MAC.
  • Analysis of surgical and transcatheter management techniques for MAC.
  • Examination of ongoing research and new transcatheter technologies.

Main Results:

  • MAC is increasingly detected, posing significant challenges for cardiac surgery and transcatheter interventions.
  • Existing surgical and transcatheter approaches aim to mitigate MAC-related complications.
  • Novel transcatheter technologies are under development to address these management difficulties.

Conclusions:

  • Mitral annular calcification requires careful consideration in cardiovascular patient management.
  • Both surgical and transcatheter interventions are evolving to manage MAC.
  • Future research focuses on innovative transcatheter solutions for MAC.

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