Infective Endocarditis of the Mitral Valve: Optimal Management

Infective endocarditis continues to be associated with significant morbidity and mortality despite recent advances in its management and remains a serious and challenging condition requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Surgery is essential in at least 50% of cases. Surgical outcomes have improved with the introduction of newer techniques for valve reconstruction and also depend on many factors, including the underlying cause, causative organism, tissues involved, and host factors.