Surgical repair for severe mitral valve prolapse and regurgitation in elderly men

Mitral valve prolapse is one of the most common causes of severe mitral regurgitation in the elderly. Recent data indicate that mitral valve repair can be performed safely in the majority of older patients with severe mitral regurgitation due to mitral valve prolapse, and that long-term functional results are excellent. In this issue, Drs. Ward and Chesler review the pathophysiology, clinical features, and management of this increasingly common problem. Dr. Amsterdam then discusses 2 recent articles from the medical literature, including a randomized trial comparing carotid endarterectomy with medical therapy in patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis, and a Consensus Panel Statement on secondary prevention of coronary events through aggressive risk factor modification. This is followed by an annotated bibliography of the recent world literature on cardiovascular disease in the elderly, information about the Council on Geriatric Cardiology's upcoming Second Annual Scientific Sessions and Educational Program in Orlando, FL, and a calendar of important meetings and events.