Robotic degenerative mitral valve repair: an evolution

Robotic mitral valve repair (RMVr) has advanced considerably since its introduction at the turn of the millennium. Surgical techniques and technological innovations have addressed many of the limitations of early RMVr procedures. Today, RMVr is recognized as a safe, effective, and adaptable approach to degenerative mitral valve disease, with applications extending to commonly associated conditions such as atrial fibrillation and tricuspid valve disease. Patient selection criteria are now more rigorously defined, and robotic surgical teams are expanding the scope of practice to include increasingly complex cases. This review summarizes the evolution of RMVr techniques, current patient selection strategies, modern outcomes, and training considerations for surgeons and teams. We outline our institutional approach to RMVr and highlight key components for surgeons seeking to establish new programs or expand existing ones.