Mitral Periprosthetic Leak Procedure

Mitral periprosthetic leak procedure is a treatment for mitral periprosthetic regurgitation, a condition in which the replacement valve between the upper and lower chamber of the left side of the heart (mitral valve) leaks severely, leading to shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the feet, all of which are symptoms of heart failure. Using this procedure, specialists are able to seal periprosthetic leaks in the prosthetic heart valve. These leaks are basically gaps, or defects, that typically form as a result of calcium buildup, suture rupture, or infection. Using special catheters and plugs, physicians are able to go into the heart through blood vessels in the groin, cross the gap, and seal it using appropriately sized vascular plugs.

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

Minimally invasive procedure repairs leaks, restores patient’s independence.

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.

CLINICAL TRIALS

UAB is an active participant in research and clinical trials for Mitral Periprosthetic Leak Procedure. We encourage you to speak to your physician about research and clinical trial options and browse the link below for more information on clinical trials at clinicaltrials.gov.

View Clinical Trials