Individualized quantified tricuspid valve annuloplasty for treating Ebstein anomaly

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Congenital Heart Disease
• Cardiac Valve Repair

Background:

• Ebstein anomaly is a rare congenital heart defect affecting the tricuspid valve.
• Surgical repair of the tricuspid valve in Ebstein anomaly presents unique challenges.
• Previous surgical approaches have varied in their effectiveness and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and suitability of individualized quantified selective tricuspid valve annuloplasty for Ebstein anomaly.
• To assess the impact of this technique on tricuspid valve function and overall cardiac performance.
• To determine the long-term safety and practicality of this surgical approach.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 23 patients with Ebstein anomaly underwent individualized quantified selective tricuspid valve annuloplasty between 1999 and 2011.
• Surgical reconstruction was tailored to individual patient's tricuspid valve anatomy.
• Echocardiography was used for perioperative and follow-up assessment of tricuspid regurgitation and cardiac function.

Main Results:

• No hospital mortality was observed.
• One late sudden death occurred at 41 months; two patients were lost to follow-up.
• All surviving patients demonstrated improved tricuspid valve regurgitation and cardiac function postoperatively, with no new tricuspid stenosis.

Conclusions:

• Individualized quantified selective tricuspid valve reconstruction is a reasonable and practical surgical option for Ebstein anomaly.
• The technique offers a suitable approach for addressing the complex tricuspid valve abnormalities in this condition.
• Long-term follow-up data supports the efficacy and safety of this individualized surgical strategy.