Most people with mitral valve prolapse do not need surgery. Surgery is usually needed only for the small number of people who also have severe mitral valve regurgitation and a badly damaged mitral valve. This may cause the lower left heart chamber (ventricle) to malfunction, and symptoms of heart failure may develop. Although surgery is rarely required to treat MVP, it can be very effective.

Surgery choices

The main surgery options for people who have MVP and mitral valve regurgitation are mitral valve replacement or repair. These procedures are rarely performed on people with MVP. However, for some people who have MVP and mitral valve regurgitation, surgery can greatly improve the condition of the mitral valve. As with any surgery, risks are involved.

What to think about

Your doctor may recommend surgery for MVP based upon your risk for developing complications.

Heart valve surgery alone will not correct any underlying heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease. However, it is possible to surgically treat some heart conditions during the same procedure for mitral valve repair or replacement, if necessary.