Tricuspid valve incompetence, also known as tricuspid regurgitation or tricuspid insufficiency, is a medical condition characterized by the inadequate functioning of the tricuspid valve located between the right atrium and the right ventricle in the heart. In a healthy heart, the tricuspid valve ensures that blood flows in only one direction, from the right atrium to the right ventricle. However, when the tricuspid valve becomes incompetent, it fails to close properly, resulting in the backflow of blood from the right ventricle back into the right atrium during ventricular contraction.
This condition can be classified as either acute or chronic, depending on the suddenness and duration of the valve dysfunction. Acute tricuspid valve incompetence often arises due to traumatic injury, infective endocarditis, or complications during valve surgery. Chronic tricuspid valve incompetence typically occurs as a result of long-term damage to the valve structure, which can be caused by conditions like rheumatic heart disease, congenital heart defects, or pulmonary hypertension.
The symptoms of tricuspid valve incompetence can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be asymptomatic, while more severe cases can result in symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal swelling, jugular vein distention, and lower limb edema due to increased fluid accumulation. Diagnosis of tricuspid valve incompetence generally involves a thorough medical history review, physical examination, and echocardiography to assess the condition of the valve.
Treatment options for tricuspid valve incompetence depend on the extent of valve dysfunction and the presence of associated complications. Mild cases may not require any specific treatment other than regular monitoring. However, severe cases or those causing significant symptoms may require surgical intervention to repair or replace the affected tricus
