Ischemic mitral regurgitation: a complex multifaceted disease.

Ischemic mitral regurgitation (MR) is a complex multifactorial disease that involves global and regional left ventricular remodeling as well as dysfunction and distortion of the components of the mitral valve including the chordae, annulus and leaflets. This is a frequent (13-59%) complication of myocardial infarction, which is associated with a poor prognosis. The suboptimal results obtained with the most commonly used surgical strategy, that is, restrictive annuloplasty combined with coronary artery bypass graft, emphasize the need to develop alternative or concomitant surgical techniques that directly target the causal mechanisms of the disease. A comprehensive assessment of mitral valve configuration and left ventricular geometry and function prior to surgery as well as an accurate quantification of MR severity at rest and during exercise may help improve patient risk stratification and better individualize the surgical strategy based on the patient's specific characteristics. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current state of knowledge with regard to the definition, prevalence, mechanisms, outcome and treatment of ischemic MR. Copyright 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.