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The mitral valve is the "inflow valve" for the left side of the heart. Blood flows from the lungs, where it picks up oxygen, enters the left atrium and then passes through the mitral valve. When it opens, the mitral valve allows blood to flow into the heart's main pumping chamber called the left ventricle. It then closes to prevent blood from leaking back into the left atrium when the ventricle contracts to push blood out to the body.

Occasionally, the mitral valve is abnormal from birth. More often, the mitral valve becomes abnormal with age. It may also occur as a result of coronary artery disease.

Using advanced surgical technology, our expert physicians can perform this procedure less invasively than traditional methods. Most heart operations are performed with an incision made through the sternum or breastbone. But surgeons at Presbyterian are able to treat some patients by using small incisions on the side of the chest to reach the heart in-between the patient's ribs.

For your convenience, Presbyterian Healthcare is providing you the list of all surgeons who perform this procedure and have requested to be listed on this site. When making your selection, we encourage you to meet with the surgeon and inquire about training, number of procedures performed, etc. Its important that you choose the surgeon who makes you most comfortable. These physicians are independent practitioners and not employees of Presbyterian Healthcare.