outlook for severe mitral valve regurgitation and heart failure

My father, 75, has been diagnosed with severe mitral valve regurgitation, was in congestive heart failure with shortness of breath, orthopnea, swollen liver, with ejection fraction of 39%. Was hospitalised for a few days and responded very well to the diuretics. But the Dr says it is very complex to surgically repair the mitral valve at this stage, plus he lost about 8 kgs over just 3 days in hospital as a result of the diuretics and is quite weak. But he is now feeling more comfortable, eating and sleeping better than he has in months. What do you think is the prognosis for this condition given that we are not tackling the underlying problem and just managing the symptoms?

[kenkeith]

My suituation is very similar to your father's experience and condition.  Four years ago, I was hospitalized for CHF and have/had moderawte to severe MVR.  My EF was below 29%, enlarged left ventricle and CAD.  Surgery is not recommended when the heart is enlarged and a low EF.

Medication, healthy lifestyle, diet, and exercise has been successful.  Reduce fluid volume, maintain good blood pressure and normal (but not too low because of MVR) heart rate can provide time and relief to the heart's workload can provide time for the heart to recover to a higher EF and prevent edema as part of CHF... I didn't have a swollen liver?