Anatomy of mitral annulus insights from non-invasive imaging techniques. (20th June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Faletra, Francesco F; Leo, Laura Anna; Paiocchi, Vera Lucia; Caretta, Alessandro; Viani, Giacomo Maria; Schlossbauer, Susanne Anna; Demertzis, Stefanos; Ho, Siew Yen
• Is Part Of: European heart journal. Volume 20:Number 8(2019)
• Page Start: 843
• Page End: 857
• Publication Date: 2019-06-20
• Subjects: mitral annulus -- 2D/3D transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography -- computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance; Cardiovascular system -- Imaging -- Periodicals; Heart -- Imaging -- Periodicals; 616.10754
• DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jez153
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2047-2404

Abstract

Abstract: The mitral annulus (MA) is not a continuous ring of connective tissue from which are suspended mitral leaflets. Instead, it is a much more complex structure made up of a mix of fibrous, muscular, and adipose tissues. MA is a key structure in any type of mitral valve repair and recently it has been targeted for transcutaneous devices. Thus, a deep understanding of MA anatomy has never been more important. Traditionally, cardiac anatomy has been described using anatomic specimens. Currently, sophisticated non-invasive techniques allow imaging of MA with a richness of anatomical details unimaginable only two decades ago. The aim of this review is to provide a better understanding of the peculiar aspects of MA as they are revealed through these imaging techniques and discuss clinical implications related to this complex structure.