A directed MR jet suggests prolapse of which leaflet?

A directed MR jet suggests prolapse of which leaflet?

• A. Anterior leaflet prolapse
• B. Posterior leaflet prolapse
• C. Both leaflets prolapse
• D. Tricuspid valve prolapse

Answer: (A)

A directed MR jet localizes the regurgitant orifice to a specific spot on the mitral valve, so you can infer which leaflet is prolapsing. When the anterior leaflet is involved, the regurgitant flow tends to be directed toward the posterior wall of the left atrium, producing a clearly directed, eccentric jet. This jet direction reflects the orientation of the orifice created by the prolapsing anterior leaflet. In contrast, posterior leaflet prolapse usually yields a jet directed toward the anterior left atrial wall. Therefore, a directed MR jet is most consistent with anterior leaflet prolapse.

A directed MR jet localizes the regurgitant orifice to a specific spot on the mitral valve, so you can infer which leaflet is prolapsing. When the anterior leaflet is involved, the regurgitant flow tends to be directed toward the posterior wall of the left atrium, producing a clearly directed, eccentric jet. This jet direction reflects the orientation of the orifice created by the prolapsing anterior leaflet. In contrast, posterior leaflet prolapse usually yields a jet directed toward the anterior left atrial wall. Therefore, a directed MR jet is most consistent with anterior leaflet prolapse.