Tricuspid Valve Repair Surgery

Tricuspid valve repair may be a treatment option when noninvasive treatments are not enough to ease symptoms. When the tricuspid valve in your heart doesn't work correctly, it can prevent blood from flowing properly from the upper to the lower right chamber of your heart. This issue can cause symptoms like fatigue, leg or abdomen swelling and irregular heart rhythms. If these symptoms persist despite other treatments, surgery might be necessary to fix the valve and improve your heart's function.

Our multidisciplinary team at Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgical Institute of Texas is committed to providing care tailored to your needs. We understand the challenges of heart valve problems and are dedicated to delivering treatments that may enhance your quality of life. Whether you're beginning your treatment journey or seeking more focused interventions, we're here to support you at every step.

What Is Tricuspid Valve Repair?

Tricuspid valve repair surgery is a procedure that aims to treat tricuspid valve regurgitation, where the valve does not close tightly enough. This condition makes blood flow back into the heart’s upper right chamber (the right atrium) as it pumps to the lower right chamber (the right ventricle). Over time, this can cause the heart to work less efficiently, leading to serious health problems. Tricuspid valve repair aims to restore normal valve function, improve heart efficiency and patient symptoms, and reduce the risk of further heart complications.

The repair procedures can differ depending on what the patient needs but usually involve fixing or replacing the valve parts that are not working properly. This might include adding artificial chordae to support the valve, tightening the valve's ring (annuloplasty) or reshaping the valve flaps. These repairs are important for improving the patient's quality of life and may help them live longer if they have serious tricuspid regurgitation.

Who Needs To Have Tricuspid Valve Repair?

Tricuspid valve repair is recommended for individuals experiencing significant symptoms due to tricuspid regurgitation. Symptoms include fatigue, swelling and shortness of breath, especially in severe cases. We recommend you consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms affecting your daily life for proper diagnosis and treatment. This way, doctors may be able to assess whether your symptoms are caused by a tricuspid valve issue or other conditions.

Patients with tricuspid valve regurgitation are at risk of developing complications like heart failure, liver congestion and arrhythmias if left untreated. The decision to perform tricuspid valve surgery is often based on the severity of the symptoms, the presence of other heart conditions and the risk factors specific to each patient, such as pulmonary hypertension.

In cases where open-heart surgery may not be suitable for certain patients due to their increased risk of post-surgical complications, transcatheter tricuspid valve repair (TTVR) offers a less invasive alternative. This approach is particularly valuable for those with symptomatic tricuspid regurgitation who are experiencing worsening heart failure symptoms or have an increased risk of surgical complications.

Why Is Tricuspid Valve Repair Done?

The goal of the tricuspid valve repair procedure is to help improve symptoms, enhance quality of life and prevent the progression of heart failure. Repairing the tricuspid valve, rather than replacing it, is often preferred because it preserves the patient’s natural valve, leading to better long-term outcomes and fewer complications. This procedure can be performed through traditional open-heart surgery or minimally invasive methods, such as transcatheter tricuspid valve repair (TTVR), depending on the patient’s condition and overall health.

What Are the Benefits of Tricuspid Valve Repair Surgery?

One of the primary advantages of tricuspid valve repair is the preservation of the patient’s natural valve, which generally leads to better long-term outcomes than tricuspid valve replacement. Repairing the tricuspid valve can help stop the backward flow of blood, reducing symptoms associated with a problematic tricuspid valve.

Another critical benefit of tricuspid valve repair is the potential to avoid lifelong anticoagulation therapy, which is often necessary with valve replacement. This reduces the risk of complications related to blood thinners, such as bleeding or clotting issues. Additionally, patients who undergo successful tricuspid valve repair are less likely to experience recurrent heart failure, liver congestion and arrhythmias, which are common complications of untreated tricuspid valve disease.

What Are the Risks of a Tricuspid Valve Repair Surgery?

Tricuspid valve repair surgery is generally safe and effective, but like any surgical procedure, it does carry some risks. By collaborating closely with a compassionate, multidisciplinary team, we develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient's needs, significantly reducing the likelihood of complications. These might include bleeding, infection, or reactions to anesthesia. Occasionally, heart rhythm issues may arise, but these are carefully managed.

Additional precautions are taken for patients with existing conditions like pulmonary hypertension or other heart diseases. There may be risks, such as blood clotting or fluid build-up around the heart or lungs, but rest assured, our dedicated team is vigilant in monitoring and managing these concerns to support a smooth recovery.

What Is the Recovery Time After a Tricuspid Valve Repair Surgery?

Recovery time after tricuspid valve repair surgery can vary depending on the individual, the complexity of the surgery and any underlying health conditions. Generally, patients can expect to stay in the hospital for about 5 to 10 days following the procedure, with the first few days spent in an intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring.

Once discharged, full recovery at home can take several weeks to a few months. Following your healthcare team's instructions during this period is essential, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments and gradually increasing physical activity as recommended. While some patients may return to normal activities within 6 to 8 weeks, others might need more time, mainly if complications arise or other health issues are present.

Your Heart Is in Good Hands

Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgical Institute of Texas is your heart care destination in San Antonio, TX. We are committed to helping you fully understand your health conditions and the mitral valve repair and replacement options. We aim to empower you to make informed decisions about your treatment, ensuring you receive the care that suits your needs.

Find a Doctor

Please call 210-798-4311 to schedule an appointment with a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon.