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.