Tricuspid annuloplasty versus conservative management for rheumatic tricuspid incompetence

ABSTRACT

Fifty five patients having rheumatic tricuspid incompetence were operated upon for concomitant mitral valve from March 1981 to March 1987. Final assessment of the tricuspid valve was done by finger palpation prior to bypass. Thirty eight patients were found to have moderate to severe tricuspid incompetence [Group 1]. They had tricuspid valve annuloplasty. De Vega semicircular annulopasty was performed for the majority of them [35 patients], while original Carpenteir ring was inserted in three. Seventeen patients [Group II] were evaluated to have mild to moderate T.I. And were conservatively managed. Follow up of both groups for periods ranging from 6 m to 6 y showed significant improvement in group A. It was concluded that tricuspid valve repair is indicated for any patient with any degree of T.I felt at operation