Tricuspid valve insufficiency, also known as tricuspid regurgitation, is a medical condition characterized by the improper functioning of the tricuspid valve in the heart. The tricuspid valve is situated between the right atrium and the right ventricle and is responsible for regulating the blood flow in the heart. When the tricuspid valve fails to close properly upon ventricular contraction, it allows the blood to leak back into the right atrium from the right ventricle, impairing the efficiency of blood circulation.
Tricuspid valve insufficiency can be classified into two types based on the underlying cause: primary and secondary. Primary tricuspid valve insufficiency is caused by a malfunctioning tricuspid valve itself, leading to its inadequate closure. On the other hand, secondary tricuspid valve insufficiency occurs as a consequence of other heart conditions, such as high blood pressure, weakening of the heart muscle, pulmonary hypertension, or heart valve diseases.
The symptoms of tricuspid valve insufficiency may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common manifestations include fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling of the extremities (edema), and fluid retention in the abdomen (ascites). In mild cases, individuals may not experience any symptoms at all.
Diagnosis of tricuspid valve insufficiency typically involves a thorough medical history review, physical examination, and additional diagnostic tests, such as echocardiography, electrocardiography, and cardiac MRI. Treatment options for tricuspid valve insufficiency vary depending on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. In mild cases, close monitoring may be recommended, while in more severe instances, medication management, surgery, or valve repair/replacement procedures may be necessary
