Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER), often referred to by device names such as MitraClip or PASCAL, is a catheter-based treatment used in selected patients with significant mitral or tricuspid valve regurgitation. German structural-heart programs assess anatomy, symptoms, ventricular function, surgical risk and alternative treatment options before recommending TEER.
TEER is not a generic substitute for valve surgery
The choice between medical therapy, transcatheter repair, valve replacement and surgery depends on the exact valve lesion and patient risk. DHZC Charité describes an interdisciplinary structural-heart approach combining interventional cardiology, cardiac imaging and cardiac surgery.
Imaging determines whether clipping is technically suitable
A meaningful review usually needs recent echocardiography and often transesophageal echocardiography. The team must understand leaflet anatomy, regurgitation mechanism, valve gradients, ventricular function and pulmonary pressures before discussing a catheter procedure.
- Recent transthoracic echocardiogram
- Transesophageal echocardiography if available
- Prior cardiac catheterization or CT reports when relevant
- Current medication
- Previous cardiac surgery/intervention reports
- Functional status and major comorbidities
The Heart Team should compare alternatives
For complex valve disease, the important question is not simply whether TEER can be performed, but whether it is the most appropriate option compared with surgery, replacement or optimized medical treatment.
Plan follow-up after returning home
International patients should clarify post-procedure echocardiography, antithrombotic treatment, wound/access-site review and who will continue cardiology follow-up after discharge.
Sources and review
This guide was last source-reviewed on 2026-08-29.