Apparatus for use in repairing an atrioventricular valve in a patient is provided. The apparatus comprises a fastening mechanism for use in repairing a mitral valve in the heart of a patient. The mechanism includes a first end, a second end, and a body extending therebetween. The mechanism is configured to be positioned in the patients heart using at least one of a guide catheter and an interventional tool that positions the fastening mechanism without penetrating a myocardium. The first end is configured to couple to the valve leaflet while the heart is non-arrested. The second end is configured to couple to a structure other than the valve leaflet, such that the mechanism remains coupled within the heart after being coupled within the heart and simulates the function of a natural chordae.
