The MitraClip procedure is a minimally invasive, catheter-based treatment for severe mitral regurgitation (leaky valve) in high-risk patients who cannot undergo open-heart surgery. A device is guided through a leg vein to the heart to clip the valve leaflets together, reducing leakage and easing heart failure symptoms.

Key Procedural Details
– Approach: Performed under general anesthesia, doctors insert a catheter into the femoral vein in the leg and guide it to the heart.
– Accessing the Valve: The catheter passes through the right atrium and uses a transseptal puncture to enter the left atrium.
– Placement & Repair: The MitraClip device (a small metal clip coated in polyester) is positioned over the mitral valve. It grasps the leaflets of the valve together, creating a “double orifice” (like a staple) to stop blood from flowing backward.
– Imaging & Optimization: The team uses echocardiography (TEE) and X-ray to guide the clip, often adjusting its position to achieve the best reduction in leakage before releasing it.
– Recovery: The procedure typically lasts 3-4 hours, with patients often going home within a few days.
Benefits and Candidates
– Primary Candidates: Patients with symptomatic mitral regurgitation who are considered high-risk for standard surgery.
– Outcomes: The procedure significantly improves quality of life, reduces symptoms of congestive heart failure, and reduces the severity of leakage.