What leaflet of the MV is usually prolapsed?

What leaflet of the MV is usually prolapsed?

• A. posterior
• B. anterior
• C. septal
• D. lateral

Answer: (B)

Mitral valve prolapse happens when the valve leaflets become redundant and billow back into the left atrium during systole due to myxomatous degeneration. The part most often involved is the posterior leaflet, especially its middle scallop (P2). The posterior leaflet is larger and more prone to degenerative changes, which is why prolapse occurs there more frequently. The anterior leaflet can prolapse, but far less commonly. In exams you’ll usually see posterior leaflet prolapse highlighted, with P2 being the classic target.

Mitral valve prolapse happens when the valve leaflets become redundant and billow back into the left atrium during systole due to myxomatous degeneration. The part most often involved is the posterior leaflet, especially its middle scallop (P2). The posterior leaflet is larger and more prone to degenerative changes, which is why prolapse occurs there more frequently. The anterior leaflet can prolapse, but far less commonly. In exams you’ll usually see posterior leaflet prolapse highlighted, with P2 being the classic target.