What Is the LAMPOON Technique?
In certain patients, placing a new mitral valve risks pushing part of the old valve leaflet into the pathway blood normally takes to exit the heart — causing a dangerous obstruction. LAMPOON (intentional laceration of the anterior mitral leaflet) is a technique performed just before valve placement to prevent exactly this complication.
How Is the LAMPOON Technique Performed?
Performed as a preparatory step before the TMVR valve is deployed
A wire and electrified catheter are used to carefully split the anterior mitral leaflet in a controlled, precise manner
This creates a safe pathway for blood flow once the new valve is in place
The TMVR procedure then continues as planned, with significantly reduced risk of outflow obstruction placement to prevent exactly this complication.
Who Needs the LAMPOON Technique?
Patients undergoing TMVR whose anatomy places them at risk of LVOT obstruction
Complex or previously-treated valve cases where standard TMVR alone would carry elevated risk
What Are the Risks?
As with any complex catheter-based technique: bleeding, vascular complications, or irregular heart rhythms
The procedure itself is specifically designed to reduce a more serious risk (outflow obstruction), improving overall procedural safety in appropriate candidates
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would a patient need LAMPOON in addition to TMVR?
It’s used specifically when imaging shows a patient & anatomy carries a meaningful risk of the new valve obstructing normal blood flow — not every TMVR patient requires it.
Is LAMPOON a separate procedure from TMVR?
No — it’s a technique performed as part of the same TMVR procedure, immediately before the new valve is placed.
About Dr. Abhishek Rajpopat
Dr. Abhishek Rajpopat brings 14+ years of experience in cardiology, including 750+ TAVR procedures performed globally. He specializes in advanced structural heart procedures and follows a patient-centered approach focused on complete, individualized care. His work has been recognized with multiple honors, including a Gold Medal in Cardiology. He performed the first LAMPOON procedure in Gujarat. To discuss whether this procedure is right for you or a family member, visit www.drabhishekrajpopat.com.
