Mitral Valve Prolapse

Mitral valve prolapse, or MVP, is a condition in which the valve between the heart's left upper chamber and the left lower chamber does not close properly. The flaps of the mitral valve bulge into the left atrium every time the heart contracts, keeping the valve from closing tightly. If blood leaks backward through the valve, it is called mitral valve regurgitation. If only a small amount leaks, it likely will not cause problems, but if it is severe, it may require treatment. Listening to it through a stethoscope, MVP often produces a clicking sound as the valve's flaps billow out, followed by a murmur as blood flows back into the chamber. Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms.

Why UAB

With the first and largest comprehensive heart valve program in the state, UAB Medicine provides continuing care for patients who have or are at risk for valve disease. Our team of surgeons and cardiologists are among the nation’s most highly regarded physicians, and they provide a multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of valve disease. From aortic valve stenosis to mitral valve regurgitation, and from traditional open-heart surgery to the latest in minimally invasive procedures and robotic-assisted valve repair surgery, UAB patients benefit from our expertise in treating patients with valve disease.

The UAB Comprehensive Valve Program has built an impressive list of accomplishments in recent years. Our cardiologists and heart surgeons performed the first transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in Alabama; to date UAB has performed more TAVRs than any other hospital in the state. As an added service, patients who have been told by non-UAB doctors that they need valve surgery can speak to a UAB valve surgeon for a second opinion.

Images and Videos

Take a video tour of the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at Acton Road.

Patients like Sarah Ford travel to UAB because of the experienced surgeons and cutting-edge care.

Heart valve disease affects patients of all ages, but there are effective treatments and lifestyle changes you can make to improve your condition.

PHYSICIANS

Constantine L. Athanasuleas, MD

Abbey M. Barrow, CRNP

James E. Davies Jr., MD

Lisa Findley, CRNP, DNP

Sara J. Pereira, MD

Related Conditions

This procedure may be used to treat or diagnose several different conditions. We have listed some of these conditions below for your convenience. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list and may vary depending on your specific diagnosis.

Heart Valve Disease

RELATED SERVICES

Mitral Valve Repair

CLINICAL TRIALS

UAB is an active participant in research and clinical trials for the diagnosis and treatment of mitral valve prolapse. We encourage you to speak to your physician about research and clinical trial options and browse the link below for more information.

View Clinical Trials