Mitral TEER in London & Essex | Dr Cook

What is Mitral TEER?

What is Mitral TEER?

Mitral TEER (Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair) is a modern, minimally invasive treatment for mitral regurgitation—a common heart condition where the mitral valve leaks, allowing blood to flow backwards inside the heart. 

How does the procedure work?

Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, Mitral TEER is a keyhole procedure. A thin catheter (tube) is inserted through a vein in the groin and guided to the heart. A small, clasp-like device is then placed onto the leaking valve to help it close more effectively. This repair reduces backward flow and significantly improves how efficiently the heart pumps blood to the rest of the body. 

Recovery and Benefits of Transcatheter Valve Repair

Because Mitral TEER is performed through the blood vessels, the recovery is typically much quicker than surgical alternatives. Key benefits include: 

  • Faster recovery times: Most patients can mobilise within hours of the procedure.

  • Shorter hospital stays: Many patients return home after just a short stay.

  • Reduced physical impact: No large chest incisions or heart-lung machines are required. 

Why would I be offered Mitral TEER?

Indications for Treatment

You may be a candidate for Mitral TEER (Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair) if you have significant mitral regurgitation causing symptoms that affect your quality of life. Common signs that your heart valve is leaking include:

  • Breathlessness (shortness of breath) during daily activities.

  • Fatigue and general tiredness.

  • Reduced exercise tolerance or stamina.

In some cases, cardiac scans may show that a leaking valve is placing significant strain on your heart, even if your symptoms are mild.

A Minimally Invasive Alternative to Open-Heart Surgery

Mitral TEER is often the most appropriate option for patients who require a less invasive approach than traditional open-heart surgery. This decision is based on a comprehensive review of your:

  • Overall health and age.

  • Heart anatomy and valve structure.

  • Personal circumstances and recovery goals.

Your Specialist Heart Team Assessment

Before recommending any procedure, I conduct a thorough cardiology assessment. This includes echocardiography and advanced cardiac imaging to precisely map your valve disease.

To ensure the highest standard of care, every case is reviewed by a Multi-Disciplinary Heart Team of valve disease experts. This collaborative approach ensures your treatment plan is tailored specifically to your clinical needs.

What are the benefits and risks of Mitral TEER?

Successfully treating significant mitral regurgitation can lead to a dramatic improvement in your daily life. Key benefits of the Mitral TEER procedure include:

  • Improved Symptoms: Significant reduction in breathlessness and fatigue.

  • Increased Energy Levels: Enhanced stamina for daily activities and exercise.

  • Better Quality of Life: Restoring heart function to improve overall wellbeing.

  • No Open-Heart Surgery: Avoids the need for a large chest incision or a heart-lung machine.

  • Faster Recovery: A quicker return to normal activities and a shorter hospital stay compared to traditional surgery.

Understanding the Risks of Mitral TEER

While Mitral TEER is a minimally invasive heart valve repair, all medical procedures carry some degree of risk. While serious complications are uncommon, the specific risks vary between individuals based on their overall health and heart anatomy.

Personalised Patient Consultations

During your cardiology consultation, I will provide a detailed explanation of the benefits and risks tailored specifically to you. Once advanced cardiac imaging is available, we will provide a personalised assessment.

I ensure you and your family have ample time to ask questions, providing clear, evidence-based information so you can make informed decisions about your heart health with confidence.

Get in Touch

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Please use our Book an Appointment portal to view current availability in Essex and London.

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Please contact my medical secretary, who will be happy to assist you with scheduling, billing, or clinical queries.

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