The mitral valve mechanism with normal and prolapsed leaflets in the light of a dynamic model

A dynamic model was presented to explain some of the clinical and morphologic findings in primary mitral valve prolapse. In normal cases, the leaflets, chorda tendinae, the annular ring, and the papillary muscles represent a functional entity balanced by the pressure force acting upon the leaflets. When the leaflets are larger, as in primary mitral valve prolapse, a negative interference with this balance is achieved, causing an increased traction on the papillary muscles and a concomitant dilatation of the annular ring.