Tricuspid valve replacement

Tricuspid vale replacement (TVR) is indicated due to pure tricuspid insufficiency secondary to left valve disease or primary organic involvement of the tricuspid valve. The most frequent indication for TVR is secondary functional regurgitation. TVR is associated to a higher mortality. In this report we analyze the indications for both valve repair and replacement. We summarize our clinical experience with a 159 patients undergoing TVR between 1977-1995, presenting pre and intraoperativ e data and follow-up. The technical details for TVR are commented on. TVR is a last resort surgical manoeuver in patients with organic disease of the tricuspid valve: we recommend TVR with mechanical prostheses. Functional result is usually satisfactory.