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

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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