Table 3

Stages of chronic secondary MR

StageAnatomyHaemodynamics/LVSymptoms
AAt risk (asymptomatic)CAD or cardiomyopathyNo to trace MR—
All have primary myocardial disease with LV dilation and reduced EF
Due to coronary ischaemia or heart failure
BProgressive (asymptomatic)Regional LV dysfx.
Annular dilation
Mild to moderate MR:  ERO<0.2 cm2  RV<30 mL  RF<50%Symptoms may respond to Rx for coronary ischaemia or HF
CAsymptomatic
severe MR
Regional or global LV dilation and dysfx.
Leaflet tethering
Annular dilation
Severe MR  ERO≥0.2 cm2  RV≥50 mL  RF≥50%Symptoms may respond to Rx for coronary ischaemia or HF
DSymptomatic severe MRSevere MR  ERO≥0.2 cm2  RV≥50 mL  RF≥50%HF symptoms persist after revascularisation and medical therapy
  • CAD, coronary artery disease; dysfx, dysfunction; ERO, effective orifice area; HF, heart failure; MR, mitral regurgitation; RF regurgitant fraction; RV, regurgitant volume; Rx, therapy.