Who is a good candidate for robotic mitral valve repair, and who should avoid it?

Good candidates include patients with moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation caused by valve prolapse or annular dilation, especially those with symptomatic heart failure or declining heart function. Ideal patients have suitable anatomy, no significant calcification of the valve, and are in reasonable overall health for surgery. Contraindications include severe mitral stenosis, extensive valve calcification, active endocarditis, or prior chest surgeries that make robotic access difficult. Patients with severe lung disease or bleeding disorders may also be considered higher risk.