Tricuspid Valve Disease

Reviewed by Columbia Structural Heart and Valve Faculty, July 2024

About the Tricuspid Valve

The tricuspid valve is located between the right atrium and the right ventricle of the heart. It has three leaflets (also known as flaps or cusps) that pump blood from the atrium into the ventricle. They also keep blood from flowing back into the atrium.

What is Tricuspid Valve Disease?

Tricuspid valve disease occurs when the valve doesn’t function correctly or efficiently. It usually comes in two forms:

• Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) or tricuspid insufficiency occurs when the tricuspid valve cannot fully close. The valves become leaky, allowing blood to flow backwards. This creates a buildup of pressure on the right side of the heart, which can cause structural damage and create other issues.
• Tricuspid stenosis (TS) is much less common than tricuspid regurgitation. In tricuspid stenosis, the tricuspid valve stiffens, making it difficult for blood to flow out. This forces the heart to work harder with less blood supply, which can lead to right-sided heart failure.

Over time, untreated tricuspid valve disease can cause permanent damage to the heart. Early treatment can help slow or eliminate this damage.

What Are the Causes and Risk Factors of Tricuspid Valve Disease?

There are a number of potential causes of mitral valve disease, and certain risk factors contribute to how likely someone is to develop the condition. Several factors can contribute to developing tricuspid valve disease, including:

• Age 
• Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
• Autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis
• Congenital defects
• Certain medications
• Damage from procedures like myocardial biopsy or pacemaker implantation
• Endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart)
• Enlarged right ventricle
• Genetic disorders like Marfan’s syndrome
• Heart attack
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Radiation therapy
• Tumors and associated conditions like carcinoid syndrome

What Are the Symptoms of Tricuspid Valve Disease?

The symptoms of tricuspid valve disease vary, which can make it harder to diagnose. People with mild cases might not have any symptoms at all. Moderate to severe tricuspid valve disease can produce symptoms that can impact daily life. Symptoms of tricuspid disease may include:

• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Weakness and fatigue
• Swelling in the legs (edema)

How is Tricuspid Valve Disease Treated?

New treatments options like transcather valve repair and replacement are changing the outlook for patients with tricuspid valve disease. These minimally invasive procedures are alternatives to traditional open surgery and can reduce pain, recovery time, and the risk of complications. They also offer treatment options for people who are not candidates for surgery.

Learn More About Tricuspid Valve Disease Treatments

Make an Appointment

If you or someone you care about is dealing with tricuspid valve disease, please visit the Mitral & Tricuspid Center at Columbia. To schedule an appointment, please call (212) 342-0444 or fill out our online appointment application form (the link opens in a new window).

We accept numerous insurance plans, and our team can assist in confirming your coverage.