Below are the questions and required information for consideration of patients for Open Heart Mitral Valve Surgery at University of Florida. We hope this guide helps referring veterinarians prepare the necessary information before the submission portal opens.
Eligibility Requirements
- Has the patient been evaluated by a cardiologist and had an echocardiogram performed within the past year?
Please note: If “No,” the patient is not eligible for mitral valve surgery. Please refer the patient for a cardiology evaluation before completing this form. - Date of the patient’s most recent echocardiogram
- Does the echocardiogram confirm degenerative mitral valve disease classified as Stage B2 or greater?
Please note: If “No,” the patient is not eligible for mitral valve surgery. Patients with only a heart murmur or Stage B1 disease are not accepted. Do not continue completing the form. - Owner information, patient signalment, body condition score (/9), medical history, and referring clinic details
Patient Cardiac Diagnosis and Disease Information
- Diagnosis
- Date of initial diagnosis
- Disease stage
- Brief summary of the patient’s history and the reason mitral valve repair is being considered
- History of congestive heart failure (CHF)
- Dates of CHF episodes
- Evidence of pulmonary hypertension following the initial CHF diagnosis
- Current clinical signs (e.g., cough, syncope, ascites, pericardial effusion)
- Current medications, including formulation, strength, dosage, frequency, and route
(Example: Pimobendan 2.5 mg tablet, 1 tablet PO BID)
Most Recent Renal Values
- Date of most recent renal bloodwork
- BUN
- Creatinine
Echocardiographic Measurements
- HR
- LVIDd long (mm)
- LVIDd short (mm)
- LA/Ao
- %FS
- MV E vel (cm/s)
- TR present
- TR peak velocity (cm/s)
- Other echocardiographic abnormalities
(Examples: pulmonary valve insufficiency, atrial fibrillation, etc. If none, please enter “N/A.”)
Additional Medical History and Patient Information
- Is the client aware of the estimated cost and postoperative care requirements?
Please note: The estimated cost is $48,000–52,000. Additional expenses include medications for a minimum of 3 months and six follow-up appointments with a cardiologist. - Has the patient been evaluated by any veterinary specialist other than a cardiologist?
- Concurrent diseases
(Enter “N/A” if not applicable.) - Previous surgeries
(Enter “N/A” if not applicable.) - Has the patient ever bitten a human?
- Please describe the patient’s temperament, including whether oral medications can be administered and whether the patient can tolerate one week of hospitalization with daily diagnostics without heavy sedation.
- Please comment on the client’s anticipated compliance with postoperative care requirements, including e-collar use and exercise restriction.
