The folding leaflet: a simple method for neochordal repair.

We present a simple technique for facilitating accurate polytetrafluoroethylene chordal height adjustment in surgical repair of myxomatous mitral valve disease. This approach is based on the annulus as the reference level. The artificial chordae are first fixed to the corresponding papillary muscle. Each chordal pair is then attached to the free edge of the prolapsed leaflet, and subsequently, the leaflet edge is also attached to the adjacent annulus by temporary fixing sutures. As a result, the leaflet is gently folded. Finally, the polytetrafluoroethylene suture is knotted during proper apposition of the free edge of the leaflet to the annulus. Copyright (c) 2010 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.