THE CONDITION
What Is Mitral Valve Disease?
Mitral valve disease (MVD) is the most common heart condition in dogs, particularly affecting small breeds. The mitral valve — located between the left atrium and left ventricle — gradually deteriorates, causing blood to leak backwards and placing increasing strain on the heart.
In its early stages, MVD can be managed with medication. However, in advanced cases, surgery to repair or replace the valve may be the best — or only — option to significantly extend and improve your dog's quality of life.
THE PROCEDURE
Mitral Valve Repair Surgery
Mitral valve surgery is an extremely complex intervention. Two surgical options are currently available: open-heart mitral valve repair and Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER). Open-heart mitral valve repair surgery repairs the valve and its supporting structures (chordae tendineae and the mitral valve annulus). TEER is less invasive, but more recent and applicable to a smaller range of animals. Both procedures aim to significantly reduce mitral regurgitation and allow most dogs to reduce or discontinue heart failure medications entirely.
These procedures are highly specialised and are therefore only performed at a handful of centres worldwide.
OUTCOMES
What the Evidence Shows
Results from leading surgical centres are compelling:
Success rates above 90% at specialist centres
Most dogs experience dramatic improvement in quality and length of life
The heart's left atrium can shrink back to near-normal size within days to weeks after surgery
80% of dogs are alive one year post-operatively
78% are alive after two years
Most dogs can discontinue heart failure medications after surgery
IS YOUR DOG A CANDIDATE?
Who Is This Surgery For?
Not every dog with MVD is a surgical candidate. Ideal candidates are generally:
Small to medium-sized dogs
Young to middle-aged
In advanced disease stages (ACVM Stages B2, C, or D)
In otherwise good general health
THE PROCESS
Before, During & After Surgery
1
Before Surgery
Therapy should be optimized ahead of the procedure. Logistic planning is critical for success — I can guide you through what needs to be prepared before travel.
2
During Surgery
The procedure lasts several hours. The surgical team repairs the valve and chordae, aiming to reduce regurgitation by at least 80%. Some centres require an extended hospital stay for adequate post-operative monitoring.
3
After Surgery
Most dogs can stop heart failure medications and lead a normal life within a few weeks. Regular follow-up consultations are recommended to monitor recovery.
COSTS & TRAVEL
What to Plan For
Surgery costs vary depending on the surgical centre and your dog's specific needs. Travel and accommodation expenses will also apply.
I can help you plan the entire surgical process — from identifying the right centre to preparing the necessary documentation and coordinating the referral — so you can focus on your dog.
