Mitral or Tricuspid Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER)
Mitral or tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat leaky heart valves. It involves attaching a small clip to help the valve close more effectively, improving symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, and leg swelling. TEER is typically offered to patients who are not suitable for open-heart surgery. It can significantly enhance quality of life, although—like all procedures—it carries some risks. A specialist heart team assesses each patient to determine whether TEER is the right option.
What is the mitral valve and why does it matter?
The mitral valve lies between the two chambers on the left side of your heart. With every heartbeat, it opens and closes to keep blood flowing smoothly in the correct direction.
In some people, this valve can become leaky—a condition known as mitral regurgitation. When this happens, blood flows backwards into the upper chamber, forcing the heart to work harder over time. Many patients experience symptoms such as:
Breathlessness, especially during activity or when lying flat.
Swelling in the legs or ankles.
Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance.
A sensation of skipped or irregular heartbeats (palpitations).
A similar issue can occur on the right side of the heart. Tricuspid regurgitation often leads to fatigue and leg swelling.
What is TEER?
Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat leaking heart valves. For the mitral valve, this approach is sometimes called the MitraClip procedure, while the tricuspid version is often referred to as TriClip.
Rather than performing open-heart surgery, your cardiologist guides a thin catheter through a vein in the leg and into the heart. A small clip is then attached to the affected valve, helping it close more securely and reduce the leak.
This approach allows many patients to experience significant improvement with far quicker recovery than traditional surgery.
Who might benefit from TEER?
TEER may be an appropriate option for people who:
Have moderate or severe mitral or tricuspid regurgitation that is causing symptoms.
Are considered high-risk for open-heart surgery due to age, frailty, or other medical conditions.
Continue to experience symptoms despite medication.
At Heart Doc, your case is reviewed by a multidisciplinary heart team, ensuring that the treatment recommended is the most suitable and safest for you.
Benefits of TEER
- Reduction of symptoms such as breathlessness and tiredness.
- Improved day-to-day quality of life and ability to exercise.
- Minimally invasive approach with no need for open-heart surgery.
- Faster recovery — most patients are up and walking within hours and return home within 1–2 days.
Risks of TEER
- Bleeding or bruising where the catheter was inserted.
- Stroke or heart attack (rare).
- Irregular heart rhythms, occasionally requiring a pacemaker.
- Device-related issues, such as incomplete reduction of the leak (often manageable).
- Very rarely, the clip may detach, requiring further treatment.
Surgery Informatation
TIME IN THEATRE
1-2 Hours
HOSPITAL STAY
1- 2 Nights
RETURN TO WORK
7 Days
RECOVERY TIME
7 Days
FOLLOW UP
4 - 6 Weeks
frequently asked questions
How long does the TEER procedure take?
The procedure usually takes between one and two hours, depending on the complexity of the valve being treated. Most patients spend a short time in recovery and are able to walk later the same day. You will typically stay in hospital for one night so our team can monitor your progress before you return home.
Will I feel any pain during or after the procedure?
TEER is performed under general anaesthetic or deep sedation, so you will not feel any discomfort during the procedure itself. Afterwards, most people experience only mild bruising or soreness at the catheter site, which settles within a few days. Your cardiologist will provide guidance on pain relief and what to expect during recovery.
How soon will I notice an improvement in my symptoms?
Many patients report feeling better almost immediately, with noticeable improvements in breathlessness, energy levels, and overall comfort within the first few days. However, recovery varies from person to person. Your heart will continue to adapt over the following weeks, and your cardiologist will review your progress at follow-up appointments.
Get in Touch
Your heart health matters — and we’re here to help. Whether you have a specific concern, wish to arrange a consultation, or simply want expert guidance, our friendly team at Heart Doc is ready to assist.
You can contact us to book an appointment, discuss our services, or request further information about your condition or treatment options. We aim to make every step of your journey as straightforward and reassuring as possible.