What is the preferred surgical treatment for mitral regurgitation?

The preferred surgical treatment for mitral regurgitation is valve repair over replacement. This preference is primarily due to several advantages associated with repairing the valve rather than replacing it. Surgical repair of the mitral valve tends to have lower operative risks and better postoperative outcomes compared to valve replacement.

When the valve is repaired, the patient retains their native valve structure, which maintains the proper anatomy and function of the heart. This can lead to a lower risk of complications such as thromboembolism and endocarditis, which are more common in patients who have undergone valve replacement. Additionally, repair usually results in better hemodynamic function and longevity when compared to prosthetic valves, which may not last as long and may require further intervention over the patient’s lifetime.

In specific cases, particularly with degenerative mitral regurgitation, there are established surgical techniques (such as annuloplasty or leaflet resection) that can effectively restore valve competency. The efficacy of these repairs means that patients often have excellent long-term outcomes, making valve repair the surgical method of choice whenever feasible.

Other treatments, such as balloon valvuloplasty, are typically indicated for stenotic lesions rather than regurgitant ones, and coronary artery bypass grafting is utilized in the context