Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER)
Minimally Invasive Treatment for Mitral Valve Regurgitation
Mary Washington Healthcare performs the Transcatheter-Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) of the mitral valve using the Abbott MitraClip™. TEER is a minimally invasive treatment option for select patients with mitral valve regurgitation, often called a “leaky” heart valve—without open-heart surgery. This advanced procedure is now available at Mary Washington Hospital, delivered by an experienced structural heart team close to home.
Patients who once had limited options may now find relief from symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue and return to doing more of what they enjoy.
What Is a TEER Procedure?
TEER is a catheter-based heart valve repair procedure designed to reduce mitral valve leakage.
During the procedure:
- A small catheter is guided through a vein in the leg to the heart
- A specialized clip (MitraClip™) is placed on the mitral valve
- The clip helps the valve close more effectively, reducing backward blood flow
Because the procedure does not require opening the chest or stopping the heart, it offers a less invasive alternative for appropriate patients.
Who Is a Candidate for TEER?
TEER may be an option for patients who:
- Have moderate to severe mitral valve regurgitation
- Experience symptoms such as fatigue or shortness of breath
- Are not ideal candidates for open-heart surgery due to age, medical conditions, or overall surgical risk
Eligibility is determined by a multidisciplinary structural heart team, using advanced cardiac imaging and individualized clinical evaluation.
Benefits of TEER
For eligible patients, TEER can offer:
- A minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery compared to traditional surgical valve repair
- Improved symptoms and quality of life
Many patients experience meaningful relief while avoiding the physical stress of major surgery.
What to Expect from Your Care
Patients receiving TEER at Mary Washington Healthcare benefit from:
- Comprehensive evaluation and imaging
- Care delivered by a dedicated structural heart team
- A coordinated care plan before, during, and after the procedure
- Follow-up focused on long-term heart health
Your care team works closely with your referring cardiologist to ensure continuity and coordination at every step.