Simplified Mitral Valve Repair in Pediatric Patients With Connective Tissue Disorders

Severe mitral valve regurgitation in children can stem from various congenital anomalies that involve the valvar and sub-valvar apparatus. In the rare subgroup of pediatric patients with connective tissue disorders, severe mitral regurgitation is typically associated with massive annular enlargement and severe bi-leaflet prolapse. We present our experience with a simplified form of repair that can result in mitral valve competency and low incidence of stenosis. This repair can be accomplished expeditiously in a group of patients who often present with compensated or decompensated heart failure or who might also need intervention on the aortic root.