Tricuspid Valve Imaging and Right Ventricular Function Analysis Using Cardiac CT and MRI.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Imaging
• Radiology
• Cardiac Surgery

Background:

• Cardiac computed tomography (CT) and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) provide detailed insights into tricuspid valve anatomy and right ventricle (RV) function.
• Quantification of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and RV function analysis are crucial for patient prognosis.
• Emerging transcatheter treatments for tricuspid valve disease necessitate precise pre-procedural evaluation using CT and CMR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of CT and CMR in evaluating the tricuspid valve and RV.
• To detail imaging protocols for right heart assessment, including RV function and TR quantification.
• To illustrate the application of CT in pre-procedural planning for transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions and post-procedural complication assessment.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on cardiac CT and CMR for tricuspid valve and RV assessment.
• Description of imaging protocols for CT and CMR focusing on the right heart.
• Demonstration of CT and CMR applications in patient selection, procedural guidance, and post-procedural analysis.

Main Results:

• CT and CMR offer comprehensive visualization of tricuspid valve anatomy and RV function.
• These imaging modalities are essential for quantifying TR and assessing RV contractility.
• CT is particularly valuable for pre-procedural planning of transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions and identifying post-procedural issues like pannus or thrombus.

Conclusions:

• Cardiac CT and CMR are indispensable tools for evaluating the tricuspid valve and RV, especially with advancements in transcatheter therapies.
• Accurate TR quantification and RV function analysis using CT and CMR improve patient selection and procedural success.
• CT plays a key role in guiding transcatheter procedures and diagnosing complications, enhancing patient care for tricuspid valve disease.