The Secrets About Tricuspid Regurgitation

Retrograde flow from the right ventricle into the right atrium during ventricular systole is commonly referred to as tricuspid regurgitation (TR). This valvulopathy can occur in the acute or chronic setting and is typically the most tolerated form of regurgitation. Tricuspid regurgitation represents the pressure difference between the right ventricle and right atrium; echocardiography is a non-invasive modality that is used to quantify the right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP).

Understanding the origins of tricuspid regurgitation and how it relates to our echocardiographic is essential. Transthoracic echocardiography is readily available and often used to diagnose and manage pulmonary hypertension; getting parallel to regurgitant flow equates to an accurate measurement of the right ventricular systolic pressure. Continuous wave Doppler placement, waveform shape, the Bernoulli principle, and non-traditional imaging windows are all integral components of a successful transthoracic echocardiogram…