When the mitral valve is described as "clapping," it typically refers to a phenomenon observed during echocardiography where the valve leaflets appear to move rapidly and abruptly during the cardiac cycle, often due to mitral valve prolapse. This can indicate improper closure of the valve, leading to potential regurgitation, where blood leaks back into the left atrium. It's important for a healthcare provider to assess the significance of this finding, as it may require monitoring or intervention depending on the patient's symptoms and overall heart function.
mitral valve prolapse
Mitral regurgitation is backflow of blood through the mitral valve.
Heart attacks that damage the structures that support the mitral valve are a common cause of mitral valve insufficiency. Myxomatous degeneration can cause a "floppy" mitral valve that leaks.
The mitral valve is closed when the left ventricle is contracting.
left atrioventricular valve and left mitral valve
Mitral stenosis is the medical term meaning narrowing of the mitral valve.
The left atrioventricular valve is also known as the mitral valve.
Mitral valve
Mitral stenosis
Twice as many women as men are affected by mitral valve stenosis. About 60% of patients with mitral valve stenosis have had rheumatic fever.
The mitral and bicuspid valves are the same thing.
Mitral valve