Mitral valve regurgitation

Mitral valve regurgitation

Location of mitral valve in the heart and detail of mitral valve regurgitation.

Mitral valve regurgitation happens when the mitral valve does not close tightly enough after blood flows through the valve into the lower chamber of the heart. This makes a small opening in the valve even when the valve is closed. This opening can let blood leak (regurgitate) back into the upper chamber of the heart.

Current as of: September 7, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Rakesh K. Pai MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Michael P. Pignone MD, MPH, FACP - Internal Medicine