Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) remains one of the largest preventable burdens of disease in the world. It is perceived as a disease of childhood, acquired by streptococcal throat infection of the tonsillo-pharynx, leading to an inflammatory reaction that involves many organs, including the heart. However, cases in children of 5 to 14 years of age are likely to represent only 15% to 20% of all cases within all age groups of vulnerable populations. Rheumatic heart disease is the most common cause of multivalvular disease in developing countries. Unless aggressive and timely intervention in the form of valve replacement is pursued, the condition progresses rapidly to disability and death. Hemodynamic superiority and thromboresistance are the normal selection criteria for these prostheses, although the surgeon’s experience and the ease of insertion, availability and cost of the valve also play important roles. A strict adherence to optimal anticoagulation levels optimizes protection against thromboembolism and anticoagulation-related hemorrhage, and helps to provide the patient with a good quality life.

Keywords: Rheumatic Heart Disease; Valve Repair; Mitral Valve Regurgitation.