Tricuspid prolapse (patient information)

For the WikiDoc page for this topic, click here

Editor-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S.,M.D. [mailto:mgibson@perfuse.org] Phone:617-632-7753; Associate Editor-in-Chief: Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan, M.B.B.S.

Overview
Tricuspid prolapse is a heart problem in which the valve that separates the right upper heart chamber (atrium) and the right lower heart chamber (ventricle) of the heart does not close properly and slips out of place. This prolapse interrupts the normal blood flow.

What are the symptoms of Tricuspid prolapse?
The symptoms of tricuspid prolapse include:
 * Weakness
 * Fatigue
 * Irregular heart beats (atrial fibrillation)
 * Strong pulse in your neck
 * Swelling of the liver
 * Abdominal pain
 * Swelling in your legs

What causes Tricuspid prolapse?
The tricuspid valve separates the right lower heart chamber (the right ventricle) from the right upper heart chamber (right atrium).


 * The most common cause of tricuspid prolapse is swelling of the right ventricle. Such swelling may be a complication of any disorder that causes failure of the right ventricle, such as rheumatic fever, lung diseases such as emphysema.


 * Tricuspid prolapse may be found in those with infections, birth defects that cause the valves to be floppy and not function correctly.


 * Degenerative process in the valve can also cause the valve to slip out of place and not function properly.

How to know you have a Tricuspid prolapse?

 * The doctor will perform a physical exam and use a stethoscope to listen to your heart and lungs. The doctor may hear a heart murmur ("midsystolic murmur"). The physical exam may reveal swelling of the liver.


 * Tests that are done include:
 * ECG,
 * Chest X-ray,
 * Echocardiogram may show swelling of the right side of the heart,
 * Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE),
 * CT scan of the chest

Treatment options

 * Most of the time, there are no (or few) symptoms, and treatment is not needed.


 * Underlying disorders should be identified and treated.


 * If you have severe tricuspid valve prolapse, you may need surgery to repair or replace the tricuspid valve.


 * In some cases, if the valve can not be repaired, a valve replacement surgery will be performed.


 * Patients with tricuspid valve diseases have an increase risk of endocarditis and hence receive antibiotics before dental or invasive procedures.

Where to find medical care for Tricuspid prolapse
Directions to Hospitals Treating Tricuspid prolapse

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)
Tricupsid valve valve repair or replacement usually provides a cure.

Possible complications

 * Heart failure
 * Endocarditis