Tricuspid Valve Disease
Echocardiogram of Tricuspid Valve Tumor |
Tricuspid Regurgitation
Tricuspid regurgitation or insufficiency almost never occurs by itself. It almost always occurs after longstanding left sided heart valve disease has caused the pressure in the arteries to the lungs to increase or the heart to dilate. Tricuspid regurgitation almost always involves dilatation of the supporting structures around the valve known as the annulus. The exception to this is in cases of infection where the valve is destroyed. Tricuspid regurgitation is commonly seen with mitral stenosis or mitral regurgitation.
Symptoms
The symptoms of tricuspid regurgitation are related to difficulty in blood returning to the heart, and this causes a buildup of pressure throughout the venous system of the body. The most common symptom is swelling of the legs. The liver and other organs become congested. In severe cases, fluid may collect within the abdomen.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of tricuspid regurgitation is usually confirmed by echocardiography, an ultrasound examination of the heart.
Medical Treatment
The medical treatment of tricuspid regurgitation is chiefly aimed at treating the other underlying conditions and using diuretics to eliminate excess fluid.
Surgical Treatment
- Indications: Tricuspid surgery is indicated if the valve is leaking severely and surgery is being performed on other heart valves; occasionally moderate regurgitation is fixed if there is elevated pressure in the arteries to the lungs or the valve is significantly dilated. Surgery is also indicated in patients who may not require other valve procedures if they are having significant symptoms.