MitraClip (Mitral Regurgitation)
MitraClip Therapy
MitraClip therapy, also known as Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER), is a minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure used to treat Mitral Regurgitation (MR). This is a condition where the heart's mitral valve does not close tightly, causing blood to leak backward into the heart. In 2026, this remains a vital option for patients who are at high risk for traditional open-heart surgery.
When You Should Consider MitraClip
Severe symptomatic mitral regurgitation that limits daily activity.
Heart failure symptoms like shortness of breath or fatigue that persist despite medication.
Primary (Degenerative) MR in patients at prohibitive risk for traditional surgery due to age or frailty.
Secondary (Functional) MR caused by an enlarged heart or heart muscle damage.
Evidence of left-sided heart enlargement or significant heart overload.
Methods of MitraClip Therapy
Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair: A minimally invasive method using a groin catheter to "clip" the valve leaflets together.
Leaflet Approximation: The clip holds the flaps of the mitral valve to allow it to close more completely.
Beating Heart Procedure: Unlike traditional surgery, this is performed while the heart continues to beat without a heart-lung machine.
Real-time Guidance: Use of specialized imaging to ensure the clip is perfectly positioned to block the leak.
Device Occlusion: Deployment of a "soft" low-profile clip to reduce backward blood flow.
How MitraClip Is Performed
Catheter Access: A tube is guided through the femoral vein in the groin to reach the heart.
Navigation: The delivery system is steered into the left atrium and positioned above the mitral valve.
Clip Deployment: The MitraClip is expanded and used to grasp the valve leaflets, sealing the leak.
Monitoring: Real-time imaging (TEE) ensures the clip has significantly reduced the regurgitation before finishing.
Finalization: Once the position is verified, the clip is permanently detached and the catheter is removed.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Fasting for 8-12 hours before the catheterization.
Blood tests, ECG, and chest X-rays to assess overall health and valve function.
Adjusting current medications as directed by the cardiology team.
Discussing any allergies, particularly to materials used in the device or contrast dye.
Arranging for post-operative care and a support person for the recovery period.
Tests Before MitraClip Therapy
Echocardiogram (TTE or TEE) to determine the severity and location of the valve leak.
Cardiac Catheterization to measure heart and lung pressures.
Cardiac MRI or CT scan for detailed 3D mapping of the valve anatomy.
ECG to monitor the heart's electrical rhythm and check for conduction issues.
Pulse oximetry to evaluate oxygen saturation levels in the blood.
Life After MitraClip
Short hospital stay, usually 1-3 days for monitoring.
Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for about a month post-procedure.
Take prescribed medications, including blood thinners, as directed by the cardiologist.
Regular follow-up visits with a cardiologist to monitor the repair site.
Immediate improvement in breathing, energy levels, and physical stamina.
Benefits of MitraClip Therapy
Restores normal blood flow and prevents oxygen-rich blood from leaking backward.
Protects the lungs and heart from permanent damage caused by fluid backup.
High technical success rates, reported between 93% and 98%.
Significant reduction in heart failure-related hospitalizations.
Provides a long-term cure for symptoms with a much shorter recovery than surgery.