Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 10, 2025

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure
Published on: February 8, 2022
[From anatomy to echocardiography in secondary tricuspid regurgitation. Controversial issues]
Francesco Fulvio Faletra1, Eluisa La Franca1, Michele Pilato1
1Heart Center, IRCCS ISMETT (Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad Alta Specializzazione) - UPMC Italy (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center), Palermo.
Abstract:
This review article describes two controversial aspects of secondary tricuspid regurgitation: the still poorly understood anatomy of the tricuspid valve and the advantages and limitations of color Doppler echocardiography in evaluating tricuspid regurgitation. The tricuspid apparatus is characterized by a complex anatomical structure that includes a saddle-shaped ring, three leaflets (or more), and a subvalvular apparatus. An in-depth knowledge of the anatomy is essential for understanding the various pathophysiological mechanisms of secondary (atriogenic and ventriculogenic) tricuspid regurgitation. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional echocardiography and color Doppler analysis play a key role in correct morphological and functional evaluation and in defining the etiology and extent of tricuspid regurgitation. A multiparametric approach that considers qualitative, semiquantitative, and quantitative parameters is recommended.
Related Concept Videos
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System II:Types of Echocardiography
Types of Echocardiography
Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE)
TTE is the most common type of echocardiogram which involves placing a transducer on the patient's chest, emitting sound waves to create heart images. TTE is invaluable for evaluating the heart's size, structure, and motion, making it particularly useful for...
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

