mitral valve repair: the chordae tendineae

repair of the mitral valve is the treatment of choice for mitral valve regurgitation when the anatomy is favorable. it is well known that mitral valve repair enjoys better clinical and functional results than any other type of valve substitute. this fact is beyond doubt regardless of the etiology of the valve lesion and is of particular importance in degenerative diseases. this review analyzes the most important advances in the knowledge of the anatomy, pathophysiology, and chordal function of the mitral valve as well as the different alternatives in the surgical repair and clinical results of the most prevalent diseases of the mitral valve. an attempt has been made to organize the acquired information available in a practical way.