Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation

Diagnosis

During a routine physical exam, your doctor may find abnormalities when pressing a hand (palpating) on your chest and may notice signs of liver and spleen swelling and fluid buildup in your abdomen. Your doctor also may hear a heart murmur or other abnormal sounds when listening to your heart with a stethoscope. While these abnormalities might indicate tricuspid valve regurgitation, your doctor will order a series of tests to rule out or confirm the diagnosis. These tests might include the following:

  • Echocardiogram (echo) – This test, which uses sound waves to create a moving picture of the heart, is the primary test to diagnose tricuspid valve regurgitation.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – This test measures the heart's electrical activity.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan – This test uses X-rays to take detailed cross-sectional images of the heart and arteries.
  • Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – This test uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed heart images.
  • Chest X-ray – This test uses a beam with a small amount of radiation to show images of the bones, heart and lungs, and blood vessels.

Improving Patient Care

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) is the leading nonprofit medical society representing invasive and interventional cardiology. Founded in 1978, SCAI’s mission is to lead the global interventional cardiovascular community through education, advocacy, research, and quality patient care. 

SCAI has dedicated its work to advancing the profession and is the designated society for guidance, representation, professional recognition, education, and research opportunities for invasive and interventional cardiology professionals. For more than 40 years, SCAI has personified professional excellence and innovation globally, fostering a trusted community of more than 4,500 members dedicated to medical advancement and lifesaving care for adults and children with cardiovascular disease.  

Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions®

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