5、Future Applications
In conclusion, “Mitral valve reserve” means the degree of apposition
of the MV leaflets that allows the apparatus to sustain further
remodeling without overt systolic incompetence. Remodeling of the MV
apparatus in IMR can be heterogeneous with a variable degree of
apposition/reserve along the line of coaptation. Depending upon the
available reserve, the upper limit of the MA diameter is MV specific and
perhaps region specific within the same MV. These regional geometric
changes can be used to identify important MV apparatus remodeling that
may require intervention. We need to further clarify the role of
“mitral valve reserve” in patients with IMR. Preoperative
echocardiographic assessment should provide the surgeons with
information on the pathology and dimensions of the MV apparatus to
predict disease recurrence and support the surgical decision making.