Mitral Valve Prolapse

Mitral Valve Prolapse: This is when the Mitral valve leaflets bow backwards into the Left Atrium. MVP is found in up to 17% of healthy young women and up to 7% of healthy young men. If found early, the person should take an antibiotic before visiting the dentist or having an invasive procedure. If these precautions are not taken then the valve could become worse. Complications could include mitral regurgitation, thickening of the valve and risk of endocarditis (growth of bacteria on the leaflets – MV may need to be replaced). If precautions are taken early, then complications may be avoided. People with MVP should have echoes regularly to monitor the health of the valve.