Images by Genevieve Carbonatto
Apical 4-chamber view showing the posterior mitral valve leaflet prolapse that was and should be diagnosed on the parasternal long axis view of the LV, but if the parasternal window cannot be used and the apical view demonstrates the mitral leaflet, or part of it protruding into the LA during systole with a very eccentric jet, then MVP or flail leaflet must be considered.
Parasternal long axis view of the LV displaying the prolapse of the posterior mitral leaflet during systole.
Apical 4-chamber view showing the prolapsing PMVL protruding into the LA during systole. From the apical view the “redundant” prolapsing valvular tissue may appear flail.
Apical 4-chamber view showing significant anteriorly directed mitral regurgitation, (MR) during systole. Anteriorly directed MR should immediately alert you to the possibility of posterior mitral leaflet prolapse, (MVP).