SAM-systolic anterior motion of the anterior mitral valve leaflet post-surgical mitral valve repair

Systolic anterior motion (SAM) is a postoperative complication experienced by patients undergoing mitral valve repair. The incidence of SAM after mitral valve repair ranges from 5 to 10%. Early recognition of the signs and symptoms of SAM is imperative to the management of these patients. This article presents the pathophysiology of mitral valve dysfunction to give the practitioner a clear understanding of the dynamics of SAM. This article's main focus is the detection and management of SAM and the most current treatment modalities. A case study is used to illustrate the complex management necessary for the patient with SAM.