Surgical Repair of the Mitral Valve in Children With Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Mitral Regurgitation

We conclude that repair of the mitral valve is feasible in children with dilated cardiomyopathy and acquired mitral regurgitation. Most of the children demonstrated decreased left ventricular chamber sizes and an improved functional status. Although this operation improves symptoms, it is not clear whether it postpones or abrogates the need for cardiac transplantation.