Efficacy comparison of two methods of tricuspid annuloplasty in the treatment of functional tricuspid regurgitation

Abstract

Objective To investigate the operation indications,surgical procedures and peri -operative management of functional tricuspid insufficiency (FTI) secondary to rheumatic valve disease.Methods Tricuspid annuloplasty was performed in 126 patients from Dec 2005 to Jan 2009 with rheumatic valve disease and FTI.They were divided into devegar procedure group ( n =61 ),and ring annuloplasty group ( n =65 ).All patients underwent in addition one - stage valve replacement including mitral valve replacement in 84 cases and combined aortic and mitral valve replacement in 42 cases.Results Early mortality was 4 cases (3.2％).Follow - up was made in 114 patients for 2 years.Four patients died of cardiac failure,and the others were considerably improved in quality of life.Diameter of right atriums and ventricles was significantly shorter than that preoperatively.Mild to moderate tricuspid insufficiency remained in 20 cases.Conclusions According to location of tricuspid annulus dilatation and degree of FTI,Ring annuloplasty was an effective treatment for functional tricuspid regurgitation with better midterm result.Diuretics and vasodilators are helpful to reduce pulmonary artery hypertension and improve long -term effect. Key words: Tricuspid insufficiency; Surgical procedures; Tricuspid annuloplasty