Tricuspid Valve Repair
Rely on a skilled VHC Health surgeon if you need tricuspid valve repair surgery. It could help you regain energy and endurance in Arlington and the DC metro.
What Does a Tricuspid Valve Do?
Your tricuspid valve is on the right side of your heart. It lets blood move from the top chamber (the right atrium) to the bottom chamber (the right ventricle). The ventricle then pumps the blood to your lungs to pick up fresh oxygen.
If this valve doesn’t close tightly, blood can leak backward into the atrium. This problem is called tricuspid valve regurgitation. The valve can also become weak or damaged from aging, infection, or certain diseases. When this happens, you may feel:
- Tired
- Short of breath
- Swollen in your legs
- Less able to exercise
Many people need valve repair to stop the leak and help the heart pump better.
Diagnosing a Leaky Valve
To see how well your valve is working, your doctor may order:
- Cardiac catheterization, a test that shows blood flow and pressure
- Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), an ultrasound taken from the back of your heart
These tests might show that you need surgery. Your doctor will refer you to a cardiac, vascular, and thoracic surgeon at VHC Health.
Tricuspid Valve Repair Surgery
During the surgery:
- You'll be under general anesthesia, so you'll be asleep and won't feel anything.
- You’ll be connected to a heart‑lung bypass machine, which keeps your blood moving and full of oxygen.
- Your surgeon will open the right upper chamber of your heart.
- The surgeon will repair the valve using an annuloplasty ring. It strengthens the valve’s frame so it can close properly.
If you need another heart surgery, your surgeon may do it at the same time as tricuspid repair.
Learn how to prepare for surgery at VHC Health.
After Surgery
Right after surgery, you’ll recover in the intensive care unit (ICU) so we can watch you closely. As you improve, you’ll move to the cardiovascular step‑down unit for three to four more days. Before you leave the hospital, your care team will make sure you can walk safely, eat regular food, and care for yourself at home.
Follow-Up Care
A week after you go home, you’ll return for a follow‑up visit. Your care team will check your incision, review your medicines, and make sure you’re healing well. You may also join cardiac rehabilitation to help build strength and stamina after heart surgery.
