Mitraclip for Treatment of Functional Mitral Regurgitation
Heart failure patients who are diagnosed with functional mitral regurgitation will be excited to know that the FDA has recently approved a new treatment modality: the MitraClip.
What is the MitraClip?
The MitraClip is a heart valve replacement device that is used to reduce patients with moderate to severe functional mitral regurgitation, a common heart failure symptom. The condition results in a leakage of blood backward through the mitral valve into the left atrium of the heart. This can result in heart failure symptoms including fatigue, swelling in the legs, and shortness of breath.
The device approval from the FDA increases the chance of finding a solution to the symptoms of heart failure, specifically functional mitral regurgitation. Patients who have been unable to seek relief with other therapies will be excited to learn that the MitraClip may be the solution for their specific condition. With approximately 6.5 million adults in America living with heart failure, the discovery of new treatment modalities is more important than ever!
How is the MitraClip used?
The insertion of the MitraClip is performed during a minimally invasive procedure at CVAM Cardiovascular Associates of Mesa. The device is led through the femoral vein in the leg where it is guided into the left ventricle of the heart. It clips together the leaflets of the heart’s mitral valve to reduce blood backflow caused by this condition.
Am I a candidate for the MitraClip?
Patients who have heart failure that is combined with functional mitral regurgitation are encouraged to take the time to speak to their doctor about the MitraClip as an option for treatment. Depending on the patient’s treatment history and current condition, a doctor may recommend this treatment as a way of reducing the severity of functional mitral regurgitation.
Request an appointment to learn more about MitraClip
The cardiologists of CVAM Cardiovascular Associates of Mesa in Mesa, AZ have years of combined experience in providing care for patients with heart conditions. If you are interested in learning more about the MitraClip for treatment of functional mitral regurgitation, contact our practice by calling (480) 641-5400 for an appointment. We are conveniently located at 6116 East Arbor Avenue.