What is Mitral Valve Regurgitation (MR)?

The mitral valve is one of four valves in the heart that directs the blood flow from the heart’s left atrium to the left ventricle. Each valve has flaps, also called leaflets, that open and close once during each heartbeat.

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Mitral valve regurgitation or “leaky valve” is a condition in which the mitral valve flaps do not close completely, letting blood leak backward. Mitral regurgitation is a life-threatening and highly debilitating disorder, severely limiting physical activity and quality of life. It weakens the heart, initiating a cascade of events, including fatigue, heart rhythm irregularities, high blood pressure in the lungs, shortness of breath and blood clots.

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If left untreated, mitral regurgitation can lead to heart failure and death.