Tricuspid valvuloplasty in hypoplastic left heart syndrome

Tricuspid valve regurgitation is a common finding in patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome undergoing staged surgical reconstruction and can result from either abnormal valve morphology or incomplete leaflet coaptation due to annular dilatation. Significant tricuspid insufficiency imposes an additional volume load on the right ventricle and may have an important effect on survival. The spectrum of tricuspid valve anatomy found in hypoplastic left heart syndrome and surgical techniques available for the repair of atrioventricular valves are discussed. Tricuspid valvuloplasty during either the hemi-Fontan or Fontan stages of reconstruction carries a high success rate and is associated with improved right ventricular function. Copyright 1999 by W.B. Saunders Company