[Is the tricuspid valve an enigma? Surgical treatment: valvuloplasty or valve change? Which prosthesis?].
An extensive review of the literature on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of the tricuspid valve is presented. As a result of this research, it is evident that a satisfactory diagnostic procedure for this valve has not yet been achieved, as is the case with the other cardiac valves; thus, doubts remain regarding the specific indications for surgical treatment. Nevertheless, there exists some consensus among the most experienced specialists on the possibilities of surgery, particular by in determining whether the injury is organic or not. Different groups accept that when the problem is insufficiency by dilatation of the ring, surgery should be conservative. However, if a serious organic injury is found, substitution by a bioprosthesis may be the first option. Only if the valve injury is too severe, or in special cases, like in young patients with a long life expectancy, the use of mechanical valves would be indicated.
Juárez Hernández
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Departamento de Cirugía Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Presa No. 206-17, San Jerónimo Lídice, C.P. 10200.
D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D006350:Heart Valve Prosthesis; D006801:Humans; D014262:Tricuspid Valve Insufficiency / Q000601:surgery*