Mitral Annuloplasty Using A Biodegradable Annuloplasty Ring

摘要

With the advent of several valve repair techniques, mitral valve repair is now preferred over mitral valve replacement as the treatment of choice for several mitral pathologic conditions. Because annular dilation is a vital component in most cases of chronic mitral regurgitation (MR), annular support is necessaiy to provide adequate repair and optimum long-term results. Annular reinforcement permits shrinking of the dilated annulus, allowing adequate coaptation of the valve leaflets, thereby preventing recurrent dilation.It is vital to bear in mind that the mitral annulus is a dynamic structure that is flexible and changes shape throughout the cardiac cycle, assuming a 3-dimensional "saddle-shape" that reduces mechanical stress on the leaflets. Although for surgical purposes, the mitral annulus is considered the area of attachment of the valve leaflets to the atrial muscle, the firmest site of support for the mitral valve is in the region of the fibrous continuity between the aortic and mitral valves, the extent of which is delineated by the right and left fibrous trieones.