The subvalvular apparatus in rheumatic mitral stenosis: methods of assessment and therapeutic implications.
The assessment of the structure and function of the subvalvular apparatus (SVA) in patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) is complex, yet is of major importance prior to therapeutic decision making. Currently available methods of assessment are neither sufficiently accurate nor feasible. We review anatomic and functional aspects of the SVA and define SVA involvement in rheumatic MS. The role of various noninvasive and invasive methods for evaluating the integrity and function of SVA in rheumatic MS, as well as clinical implications and pitfalls in assessment of SVA are also discussed.
Turgeman
Yoav
Y
Department of Cardiology, Ha'Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel. yoav_t@clalit.org.il
Atar
Shaul
S
Rosenfeld
Tiberio
T
D002815:Chordae Tendineae / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D008943:Mitral Valve / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D008946:Mitral Valve Stenosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D010210:Papillary Muscles / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D012214:Rheumatic Heart Disease / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy