Studies continue to show that mitral valve surgery can be safely performed in most elderly patients with severe mitral regurgitation. Mitral valve repair techniques, combined with the Cox Maze IV procedure to correct atrial fibrillation, and placement of an occlusive clip on the left atrial appendage, can markedly improve patients’ quality of life.

Moreover, many patients can have their chronic anticoagulation stopped, decreasing the risk of complications associated blood thinners.

The best outcomes occur when operative intervention is performed early, before advanced symptoms of heart failure develop.