Mitral-TEER (Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair)

Mitral-TEER is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat moderate to severe mitral regurgitation, a condition in which the mitral valve does not close properly, allowing blood to leak backward into the left atrium. This backward flow can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling, reduced exercise tolerance, or worsening heart failure. If left untreated, severe mitral regurgitation can significantly impact heart function and long-term health.

At Premier Cardiology, our interventional heart specialists use advanced catheter-based techniques to perform Mitral-TEER, offering a safe alternative for patients who may not be candidates for open-heart surgery. The procedure improves valve closure, reduces symptoms, and enhances overall heart performance.

Conditions Treated with Mitral-TEER

Mitral-TEER may be recommended for patients with:

  • Primary (degenerative) mitral regurgitation – caused by structural issues in the mitral valve leaflets
  • Secondary (functional) mitral regurgitation – resulting from heart failure or dilation of the heart chambers
  • Symptomatic moderate-to-severe or severe mitral regurgitation
  • High surgical risk due to age or other health factors
  • Worsening heart failure despite medications

Our team performs a detailed evaluation, including echocardiography and other imaging, to determine whether Mitral-TEER is the best treatment option.

Diagnostic Tools Used Before Mitral-TEER

A thorough diagnosis is essential to ensure proper candidacy. Premier Cardiology utilizes advanced imaging and testing, including:

  • Echocardiogram – evaluates valve structure and regurgitation severity
  • Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) – provides detailed visualization of the mitral valve
  • Cardiac MRI – assesses heart function and volume
  • Cardiac Catheterization – measures pressures and evaluates coronary artery health
  • Stress Testing – determines the functional impact of valve disease

These tools enable our cardiologists to develop a precise, individualized treatment plan.

Mitral-TEER Procedure Overview

Mitral-TEER is performed in a specialized cardiac catheterization or structural heart lab:

  1. A catheter is inserted through a vein in the groin.
    Imaging guidance is used to access the mitral valve.
  2. A small clip-like device is placed on the valve leaflets to help them close more effectively.
  3. Blood flow improves immediately as the leak (regurgitation) is reduced.
  4. The device remains permanently implanted to support long-term valve function.

Most patients experience symptom improvement within days after the procedure.

Benefits of Mitral-TEER

Mitral-TEER provides a range of significant benefits:

  • Reduces mitral regurgitation and improves valve function
  • Relieves symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue
  • Minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery
  • Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
  • Decreases hospitalizations related to heart failure
  • Improves quality of life and functional capacity
  • Suitable for patients at high surgical risk

Recovery from Mitral-TEER:

  • Many patients return home within 1–2 days
  • Light activities can resume shortly after discharge
  • Follow-up echocardiograms confirm improved valve function
  • Medications may continue to support heart health
  • Ongoing management of blood pressure, heart failure, and other conditions ensures long-term success

Regular follow-up with your cardiologist helps maintain valve stability and monitor overall heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mitral-TEER safe?
Yes. It is a proven, minimally invasive procedure with strong safety outcomes when performed by experienced specialists.

Who is not a candidate?
Patients with heavily calcified valves or certain anatomical limitations may require alternative treatments.

How soon will I feel better?
Many patients notice improvement in breathing and energy within days or weeks.

Will I still need medications?
Some patients continue heart failure or blood pressure medications to protect long-term heart health.