Objectives: In patients who require minimally invasive mitral valve repair (MICS-mitral), it is difficult to determine the appropriate length of artificial chordae, position, and number of artificial chordae. The Memo 3D Rechord, a complete prosthetic ring associated with a temporary chordal guide system comprised of yellow loops that function as a reference guide for automatically determining the height of neo-chordae. We sought to evaluate our tips for use of this system.
Methods: Five patients (1 male, mean 68 years old) who underwent MICS-mitral using artificial chordae with the Memo 3D Rechord were evaluated. Prior to surgery, we assessed the prolapse position using 3-dimensional( 3D) echocardiography to decide the number and positions of the artificial chordae. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sutures were passed through the papillary muscles and the free margin of the prolapsed leaflet, then appropriate positioning of the PTFE chordae was performed using a saline test. The PTFE chordae were passed through the loops and the free margin of the prolapsed leaflet was brought to the posterior annulus. Then, the PTFE sutures were tied and the temporary loop system removed.
Results: All patients had posterior leaflet prolapse. The number of the artificial chordae was 2 in 3 patients, and 1 in 2. The base of the artificial chordae was attached to the anterior papillary muscle in 3patients and posterior in 4. Additional indentation closure was required in 1 patient. All mitral valve repairs were performed successfully. Postoperative echocardiography mitral regurgitation( MR) grade was trivial in 5.
Conclusions: Using our technique, it was possible to decide the appropriate length and position of the artificial chordae and MICS-mitral for leaflet prolapse with the Memo 3D Rechord is a simple and reproducible method.