Percutaneous mitral valve repair.

Nonsurgical treatment of clinically important mitral regurgitation (MR) has evolved tremendously over the past decade. Recent studies of percutaneous mitral valve repair procedures have shown that less invasive procedures are safe and can be effective in selected patients. MitraClip has been studied most extensively. The MitraClip is attached to the middle scallop of the mitral leaflets by a transseptal-transvascular approach. The device approximates the leaflets in an edge-to-edge percutaneous repair technique that diminishes MR, improves functional status, and improves left ventricular remodeling. The subgroup that has the most benefit includes patients with older age, poorer left ventricular function, and functional MR and is considered high risk for surgical valve replacement. Other novel percutaneous mitral valve therapies under investigation include indirect and direct annuloplasty, and ventricular remodeling devices.