Improvement in Left Cardiac Function Following Mitral Valve Repair: Analyses Based on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the structural and functional changes of left-sided cardiac chambers by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) in patients with chronic mitral regurgitation after mitral valve repair (MVR). Patients and Methods: Among 103 patients who underwent MVR, 21 showed normal left ventricular (LV) function; their pre- and postoperative left atrial (LA) and LV functions were examined by CMRI. Results: LV end-diastolic volume, LV end-systolic volume, and LV mass significantly were reduced postoperatively (p<0.01) and postoperative LV ejection fraction tended to decrease. LA volume parameters also significantly decreased postoperatively (p<0.01). The conduit function positively affected the LV filling volume postoperatively (p<0.01); however, no effect on the booster pump function was noted (p=0.01). Conclusion: Restoration of LA and LV functions after a successful MVR was not associated with structural improvement in LA and LV.