Tricuspid valve: Once disregarded, now acknowledged

Abstract

The Tricuspid Valve (TV) has been a subject of increasing clinical and research interest over the last century due to recognition of the importance of right heart (RH) disease. In this review we have emphasised the concept of the RH as a single functioning unit under normal and altered loading conditions. The complex structure of the RH is reflected in schematic illustrations to broaden understanding outside of the echo laboratory. We have examined the current TR classification model in pursuit of generating research into whether a separate “pacing lead TR” subtype should be considered. The impact of TR on outcomes and most of current treatment strategies have also been covered. We hope this can be widely utilised by internists, cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, general practitioners, and clinical cardiac physiologists alike.

Keywords

• Tricuspid valve
• Echocardiography
• Right heart failure
• Interventions