Overview

This is a procedure to fix a problem with your heart's mitral valve. That's the valve between the two chambers on the left side of your heart.

Preparation

To begin, you lie on your back and you are given medicine to put you to sleep. The surgeon accesses your heart through a small incision on your chest or near your armpit. Or, if you are having an endoscopic procedure, your surgeon makes a few tiny openings for a camera and instruments. Your heart is stopped for the procedure. A heart-lung machine will supply blood and oxygen for your body.

Procedure

A small opening is made in your heart. Your surgeon carefully examines the mitral valve and the annulus. That's the ring of cartilage around the valve. The surgeon sews a reinforcing ring to help tighten and strengthen the annulus. It will help the flaps of your mitral valve to open and close correctly.

End of Procedure

When the procedure is done, your heart and chest are closed and the incision is covered with a bandage. You will need to stay in the hospital temporarily for monitoring. Your healthcare provider will give you tips to help your recovery.