How Can Mitral Valve Prolapse Be Prevented?

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) can’t be prevented, but some of its complications can.

People with mitral valve regurgitation and/or thickened valve flaps are at increased risk for infective endocarditis, an infection of the surface of the mitral valve flaps.

To prevent infective endocarditis, antibiotics may be prescribed before medical and dental procedures (such as surgery or dental cleanings) that could let bacteria into the bloodstream.

Antibiotics are usually given 1 hour before a procedure, and a second dose may be given later. Antibiotics may be prescribed for the following types of procedures:

• Dental work, including cleaning
• Surgery to remove tonsils and adenoids
• Bronchoscopy, a procedure in which a tube is put into the lungs to look at the lung passages
• Certain kinds of surgery on the digestive system, respiratory system, urinary tract, and reproductive system in women

Antibiotics may be given at childbirth as well, although MVP by itself has no effect on pregnancy.

You doctor will prescribe antibiotics that are appropriate for the type of procedure you’re having. Therefore, taking only those antibiotics prescribed, and exactly as prescribed, is important. Not taking antibiotics as prescribed can increase the risk of resistant bacteria causing a valve infection in the future. This type of infection is difficult to treat.