Safer Repair Now Available for Leaky Tricuspid Valves

The tricuspid valve initially received less attention because it fails less often, but also because treating the valve was a more daunting prospect. Patients with tricuspid disease often have mitral valve disease, as well as hypertension, atrial fibrillation and other problems. Although the valve can be repaired or replaced surgically, the operation carries a mortality rate as high as 35 percent and may not completely eliminate regurgitation.