Rupture of the chordae tendineae and mitral prolapse. General considerations and description of a case

A severe case of acute mitral insufficiency caused by a ruptured tendinous cord is described. The subject had an unrecognised mitral prolapse and had been suffering from tachycardia for years when an attack of pulmonary oedema occurred some days after apparently well tolerated exertion. The phenomena behind the event are discussed with particular reference to the mechanisms, closure and distribution of prolapses in so-called mixamatosic degeneration of the valve. The importance of body position and exertion in the creation and deterioration of prolapses is also emphasised.