Tricuspid Valve Surgery
Repair options include the following:
-
Tricuspid valve repair. The tricuspid valve can be repaired
by a variety of methods depending upon the surgical preference.
-
Tricuspid valve replacement. The tricuspid valve is replaced
with a new valve. Replacement valves fall into two categories:
Tissue valves, which are made from animal tissues and valves. The
valve leaflets are soft and thin. On the other hand, mechanical
valves, which are made from carbon fibers, have solid valve
leaflets. Patients who have undergone a valve replacement will need
to follow antibiotic prophylaxis throughout their lifetime. Patients
who have received a mechanical valve will need life-long treatment
with coumadin, a medication that thins the blood to prevent
catastrophic clots from forming on the valve leaflets
themselves.
Long-term outlook after tricuspid surgical repair
Most patients who have had a tricuspid surgical repair will live
healthy lives. Activity levels, appetite, and growth should eventually
return to normal. Your cardiologist may recommend that antibiotics be
given to prevent bacterial endocarditis after discharge from the hospital.
Individuals who had a mechanical valve replacement may need to take
anticoagulants (blood thinners) to prevent blood clots from forming on
the artificial valve surfaces. Regular monitoring of the blood's
clotting status is very important in maintaining the most appropriate
dose of anticoagulants.
Initial valve replacement is often performed using a tissue valve to
avoid the need for anticoagulation, especially for females of
childbearing age. Anticoagulation during pregnancy is very difficult
to manage, and requires special treatment.
Repeat valve replacement is not uncommon during the lifespan. In
addition, blood pressure should be closely monitored and managed.
Regular follow-up care at a specialized cardiac center should
continue throughout life.