Mitral Valve

Alternate Terms:
  • Bicuspid Valve
  • Left Atrioventricular Valve
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Heart Valve Disease & Defects



Mitral Valve Definition by Healthwise:

Mitral valve

The mitral valve separates the left upper chamber (left atrium) and left lower chamber (left ventricle) of the heart. The mitral valve is formed from two downward-facing flaps.

  • The valve opens when the heart relaxes, allowing blood to flow from the left upper chamber into the left lower chamber of the heart.
  • The valve normally closes smoothly when the heart pumps blood out of the left lower chamber to the body.

Author: Jeannette Curtis
Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated: May 25, 2007

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