MitraClip or PASCAL are devices used in a minimally invasive procedure called transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER). TEER is designed to repair the mitral valve, the part of the heart that controls blood flow. Unlike traditional open-heart surgery, this procedure uses a catheter-based approach., which does not require opening the chest or any incisions. TEER is particularly helpful for patients who have mitral valve regurgitation a condition where the mitral valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow backward into the heart.
During the procedure, the tiny repair device is inserted through a catheter into a vein in the leg and guided to the heart. The clip then attaches to the mitral valve leaflets — think of these as doors of the valve — helping them close more securely and reducing any chance of backflow. By improving valve function, the clip alleviates symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue.
Reducing mitral valve regurgitation greatly improves quality of life. In select patients with MR (approximately 50% of cases), TEER has been shown to help improve survival and help patients avoid hospitalizations and the need for a heart transplant. Patients suitable for MitraClip experience high success rates, with a noticeable reduction in feeling short of breath and fatigue. With improved heart function, patients are often able to return to normal daily activities.
Preparing for the procedure is relatively simple and involves just a few steps to help everything go smoothly. Here’s how you can get ready:
Consult with your doctor
Before scheduling your MitraClip procedure, your healthcare team will conduct tests, such as an echocardiogram or transesophageal echo, to evaluate your heart and confirm that catheter-based repair is the best option for you. Be sure to ask as many questions as you need to in order to feel comfortable moving forward.
Understand your medications
Your doctor may decide to adjust your current medications or prescribe new ones before the procedure. It’s important that you have a firm understanding of the proper dosage of your medications before leaving the hospital.
Fasting
You will be instructed not to eat or drink anything for a set period before the procedure, typically starting at midnight the night before. Your care team will provide specific fasting guidelines.
Arrange transportation
Because the procedure requires sedation, you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
Prepare for your stay
While most patients go home within a day or two, packing a small bag with things like loose clothing and essential toiletries can make your stay more comfortable.
By taking these steps, you’ll be well prepared for your procedure and a smooth, quick recovery.
After the MitraClip procedure, you can expect to spend a short time in the hospital — usually one or two days — so that your healthcare team can monitor your recovery. You may feel some soreness or bruising but this typically resolves within a few days.
Recovery at home
Once you're home, it's important to rest and avoid strenuous activities for several days. Light activities like walking are encouraged to help with circulation, but heavy lifting should be avoided until your doctor gives you the all-clear. Your healthcare team will schedule follow-up appointments to check your progress and make sure your heart is healing well.
Medications and diet
You may need to take additional medications after your procedure to prevent complications. It's also important to maintain a heart-healthy diet — including avoiding foods high in salt. Staying well hydrated and eating balanced meals can support your recovery.
Listen to your body
Some fatigue is normal after the procedure, but if you notice worsening symptoms like increased shortness of breath, chest pain or swelling, contact your healthcare team right away.
By following these guidelines and staying in close communication with your healthcare team, you give yourself the best possible outcome after your MitraClip procedure.
Frequently asked questions
While MitraClip is an excellent option, as with any procedure, there are risks. Some of those risks include bleeding, infection or potential complications with the clip. Additionally, not all patients with mitral valve disease are candidates for MitraClip. In some cases, traditional open-heart surgery or other treatment options may be more appropriate.
Mitral valve regurgitation occurs when the mitral valve doesn’t close the way it should, causing blood to flow backward into the heart. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath and swelling.
Many patients with mitral valve problems are already on blood thinners. If you are not, your doctors may prescribe gentle blood thinners, like aspirin, following the procedure.
MitraClip is less invasive. With MitraClip, there's no incision and no need to open the chest for heart surgery, and recovery time is shorter.
No, not all patients are candidates. Your healthcare team will evaluate your current condition and help you determine if MitraClip is right for you, and, if not — alternative options that may work for you.
In some cases, a second procedure may be possible if mitral valve regurgitation recurs, but this is quite rare. Your doctor will discuss this with you and determine the best course of action for your health.
Make an appointment
Take the first step towards improved heart health with Endeavor Health. Our team is here to support you and help you understand all your treatment options. You’ll receive compassionate care every step of the way.
Related treatment options
TAVI, also known as TAVR (transcatheter aortic valve replacement), is a breakthrough for patients with severe aortic stenosis, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional valve replacement. This procedure involves threading an artificial valve through the blood vessels to replace the damaged aortic valve without requiring open-heart surgery.
For narrowed valves, balloon valvuloplasty can be used to widen the valve opening, allowing for better blood flow. This is often recommended for patients with conditions like mitral or aortic stenosis.
When needed, our skilled cardiac surgeons perform open-heart surgery, using either biological or mechanical valves to replace the damaged heart valve. For certain cases, the procedure involves the heart-lung bypass machine to ensure patient safety and effective blood circulation throughout the
A minimally invasive procedure to repair the tricuspid valve without open-heart surgery.
TriClip uses a catheter-based approach to restore valve function and improve blood flow.
At Endeavor Health Cardiovascular Institute, we are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of care to every patient. With advanced technologies, a compassionate team and a personalized approach, we’re here to support you through every step of your heart health journey.
