Tricuspid Valve Disease

Tricuspid valve disease is a condition that occurs when the valve between the two right heart chambers doesn’t function properly.

The tricuspid valve is one of four heart valves that help blood flow in the right direction. The tricuspid valve is between the right upper heart chamber (atrium) and the right lower heart chamber (ventricle). Blood flows from the right ventricle to your lungs, where it picks up oxygen for the rest of your body.

If the tricuspid valve doesn’t work properly, you may need monitoring or valve repair or replacement.

What are the different types of tricuspid valve disease?

There are three kinds of tricuspid valve disease:

• Tricuspid atresia: Tricuspid atresia is a birth defect in a baby who has a solid piece of tissue where the tricuspid valve should be. The tissue limits blood flow and can affect the development of the right ventricle. It usually requires surgery.
• Tricuspid regurgitation: Tricuspid valve regurgitation occurs when the valve doesn’t close tightly enough. Blood leaks backward through the tricuspid valve every time the right ventricle contracts. This leakage increases the amount of blood in the atrium. The buildup of blood can enlarge the atrium and change pressure in the heart and blood vessels, potentially causing heart damage.
• Tricuspid stenosis: In this condition, the tricuspid valve opening is too narrow or stiff. This restricts blood flow between the two chambers. Over time, the right atrium can become enlarged, affecting blood flow and pressure. Tricuspid stenosis can reduce the amount of blood that circulates through the lungs and then to the rest of the body.

Problems with the tricuspid valve can occur with other heart valve problems, such as the mitral valve or aortic valve.

What happens if the tricuspid valve fails?

Mild tricuspid valve disease may not cause any symptoms or problems. But moderate to severe cases can enlarge the heart and cause permanent damage over time.