Tricuspid regurgitation after horse’s hoof kick into the chest

Abstract

Background: Traumatic tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) is usually a result of blunt chest trauma. Clinical picture largely depends on the severity of the new-onset TR; untreated tricuspid valve injury frequently results in chronic right-sided heart failure. Surgery is the preferred treatment option. Case report: We are presenting a young female with an injury of the tricuspid valve after horse’s hoof kick into the chest wall. We found severe TR without clinical signs of congestive right-sided heart failure. The patient underwent surgical repair of the tricuspid valve. The treatment was successful. Conclusion: In a patient with a blunt chest trauma an injury of the heart should be suspected. Tricuspid valve injury is usually initially asymptomatic, while early surgical treatment can prevent late complications.