Tricuspid Regurgitation

[Jennywren2953]

Hi everyone, I have not posted for awhile. In 2016 I was diagnosed with persistent AF. Long story but went in to have a pacemaker and AV ablation. At that time I was told my tricuspid valve was moderately leaking and they would keep an eye on it.

I had yearly Check up with my cardiologist last week, and mentioned I had been having stitch like pains in the heart area, he didn’t seemed to concerned, I also suggested doing an echo. Looking at my records he agreed as it’s been over 2 years. I was able to have the echo the same day and the doctor rang me that afternoon to tell me there were a few issues.

The tricuspid valve has moderate to severe regurgitation. The right side of my heart isn’t working properly. Pulmonary hypertension was 60. The mitral valve has mild to moderate leaking

With midley thickened leaflets.

He increased the spirolactin I take and wants to see me again in February, he said to decide what they will do with me.

I am 68 a female living in Australia.

I was wondering if anyone has had a similar problem and what they did about it. My GP told me they usually replace the valve, but I’ve heard there is a clip they insert through the artery in your leg to repair it. I would be grateful for any feedback. Thankyou🤗

[10gingercats]

I live in the uk and have a severely regurgitating Tricuspid valve.It is inoperable .I have had it getting worse for years.It does not seem to affect my life. I also have other heart issues. So i am treated with medication for the other heart issues but nothing for the regurg. Tri. The surgeons consider it too risky to operate as I am now 84 although in pretty good health. They do not generally operate on tri. valves ,in isolation here in the uk if this is the only problem but may try and fix it(close it with clips,not always successful) if doing other hear surgery.I am attached to a large and well respected hospital so I am not seeking to have surgery on this as I reckon they know what they are talking about.

[Jennywren2953 in reply to 10gingercats]

Thanks so much for your reply, glad you are doing well.

[Eadaoin]

Hi Jenny. I have had a pacemaker for 15 years, the RV lead passes through the Tricuspid valve. I had an AV Node Ablation 4 years ago. Soon after that the RV lead had to be removed and replaced which has led to the flow back of blood being described as top of Moderate regurgitation - though not reached Severe. I have no symptoms so far but have now also been put under the care of a Valve specialist. I had an echocardiogram for him (not my first as am already under other Cardiology Clinics at the same London hospital). He said he would not be able to operate on the valve. I also have blood cancers and will shortly be 80 so was not surprised to hear that. If/ when (?) there is fluid build up causing swelling around my ankles and a sensation of ‘vibrating’ on the side of my neck then I should let him know and he gave me details on how to easily contact him. Meantime he will see me in 9 months time anyway to monitor what is happening. I feel very reassured. Hope this helps and every good wish to you.

I

[Jennywren2953 in reply to Eadaoin]

Hi Eadaoin. Thanks so much for your reply. I did have the leaking tricuspid valve before I had the pacemaker put in. Me being ignorant of such things, wasn’t aware that the leads of the pacemaker went through the valve, I would have thought, it stands to reason it would leak more, but that’s water under the bridge now. I’m pleased to hear that you are doing so well,it sounds like you are in good hands. I’ve never had the swelling but before the pacemaker and AV ablation I did have the throbbing in the neck. Best wishes to you 🤗

[Hidden]

Read your thread with much interest. I have tricuspid regurgitation due to My epsteins. Does not seem to be many people with epsteins so feel a bit lonely. However I don't have any electrical issues and left side of heart seems OK from mri, but I agree that on its own the medical profession will not touch the tricuspid on its own. Too risky. Any way they have said they will look after it with medication. So currently on 25mg lisinopril and 20mg spironolactone. I was interested that you had been increase on you spironolactone. I hope you find your answers

[Jennywren2953 in reply to Hidden]

Hi Felly 12

Thanks so much for your reply, I’m afraid I have never heard of Epstein, I’ll have to investigate it, hard for you, not many people having it. My doctors originally said they would keep an eye on the tricuspid regurgitation but after this last echo, are giving me the impression it will have to be looked into. I have heard about a clip procedure being done here in Australia but will have to sweat it out until I see the specialist again in February. The dr increased the spirolactin to stop any fluid build up now the right side of my hearts not great. 🙂

[Hidden in reply to Jennywren2953]

Yes it is hard, epstein anomoly is a Congenital malfunction Unfortunately it seem rare. However it effects the tricuspid valve in the right side. It was just that I was put on spironolactone to help to remove any water to help the oxygen transfer with my lungs to blood. According to tests I have no heart failure and my lung capacity is good but the faulty vavle causes regurgitation. Which then causes cyanosis on exertion. I suppose I have had it all my life but it just becomes a big shock.

[Jennywren2953 in reply to Hidden]

It’s very good you don’t have heart failure and your lungs are good that’s a big plus🤗I have heard people have leaky valves for decades. Just keep it under control with medication, all the very best to you.

[Hidden in reply to Jennywren2953]

Thanks for your lovely reply that has boosted my confidence. Keep safe and well also.