Leaky heart valves: First in vitro study of tricuspid valve mechanics uncovers causes for leakage

Tuesday, August 9, 2011 - 15:31 in Health & Medicine

An estimated 1.6 million Americans suffer moderate to severe leakage through their heart's tricuspid valve, but what causes the problem is not well understood. A new study found that either dilating the tricuspid valve opening or displacing the papillary muscles that control its operation can cause the valve to leak. A combination of the two actions can increase the severity of the leakage, which is called tricuspid regurgitation.

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