Implications of Sarcopenia in Patients With Structural Valve Pathology

Sarcopenia is defined as a generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function. Valvular heart disease is a common cardiovascular pathology among older adults, and the effects of sarcopenia on valvular disease management remain unclear. Several chronic inflammatory, metabolic, and hormonal pathways are implicated in the pathogenesis of both valvular pathology and age-related muscle loss. While consensus definitions and diagnostic criteria continue to evolve, sarcopenia is increasingly recognized as a key determinant of functional recovery following cardiovascular surgery, particularly relevant as populations age and surgical valve interventions become increasingly feasible among geriatric cohorts. Grip strength, calf circumference, and gait speed are often used to assess sarcopenia, though widespread clinical application has been hindered by the lack of universally accepted definitions and cutoffs. In conclusion, this review synthesizes current evidence describing sarcopenia as an important risk phenotype influencing surgical selection, perioperative management, and outcomes for elderly mitral valve patients.