What valve anatomy is most commonly associated with mitral valve regurgitation?

Mitral valve regurgitation occurs when the mitral valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow backward into the left atrium during ventricular contraction. One of the most common anatomical abnormalities associated with this condition is prolapse of the valve leaflets.

In mitral valve prolapse, the leaflets of the mitral valve are displaced into the left atrium during systole. This displacement can lead to incomplete closure of the valve, resulting in regurgitation. Prolapse often occurs due to myxomatous degeneration of the valve leaflets, which causes them to become elongated and less effective in sealing the valve. This anatomical change is a primary contributor to the development of mitral valve regurgitation.

Other valve conditions, such as stenosis, thickening, and calcification, may affect overall valve function and can lead to various types of heart disease. However, these conditions do not specifically lead to the backward flow of blood characteristic of mitral valve regurgitation like prolapse does. Thus, a better understanding of mitral valve pathology highlights the significance of prolapse in contributing to this common cardiac complication.