Tricuspid Valve Disease

The tricuspid valve is one of four valves or “doorways” in the heart that ensure blood flows in a forward direction. When the tricuspid valve flaps do not close completely, blood can flow backward in the right side of the heart. This is called tricuspid regurgitation (or tricuspid valve regurgitation). It is a common complication of other heart problems like heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, other valve diseases, and cardiomyopathy, but it can also be caused by infection, pacemakers, defibrillators, and more.

Less commonly, the tricuspid valve flaps can become stiff and narrow. This is called tricuspid stenosis (or tricuspid valve stenosis).

Tricuspid atresia is a congenital heart defect in which the tricuspid valve does not develop normally. It is usually treated in infancy.

In addition to administering a physical examination and discussing your symptoms and medical history, your doctor may order the following tests.

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart and is the gold standard for diagnosing and determining the severity of tricuspid valve regurgitation. A probe is moved over the surface of your chest, and sound waves capture moving images of your heart.

Transesophogeal Echocardiogram (TEE)

Similar to a standard echocardiogram, this test uses sound waves to create even more-detailed, 3D images of your heart. Instead of the probe moving over your chest, a tube-like probe is passed down your throat and into your esophagus while you are under anesthesia or sedation.

Cardiac Catheterization

A thin, long, hollow tube called a catheter is inserted into a large blood vessel and guided through your circulatory system to your heart. A heart catheterization helps measure pressures in the heart and lungs, which are often high when tricuspid valve regurgitation is present.

Cardiac CT Scan with Contrast

This non-invasive X-ray text measures the size of heart chambers and the tricuspid valve opening. An IV is placed into a vein and contrast (dye) is injected into the IV, which highlights inside the heart chamber and blood vessels.

Cardiac MRI

Radio waves, magnets, and a computer create still and moving images of your overall heart structure, function, blood flow, and surrounding structures.

Other Tests

These additional tests can help determine the severity of your tricuspid valve disease and related conditions like liver dysfunction or exercise intolerance. 

• Blood tests: measure substances in your blood.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): records your heart’s electrical impulses and rhythms through small electrodes placed on your skin.
• Stress test: evaluates your heart’s electrical function while you exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike.

Observation

Many people with tricuspid valve disease have minor or no symptoms. In this case, you may not need treatment. You should see your cardiologist regularly to monitor your valve health.

Medication

Medications can help treat contributing conditions, reduce symptoms, and prevent complications of tricuspid valve disease. For example, doctors often prescribe diuretic medicines to help decrease fluid retention caused by tricuspid valve regurgitation.