Tricuspid valve revalvulation: optimization of patient selection by advanced imaging techniques and development of a novel percutaneous implantation technique.

The tricuspid valve has long been neglected, although tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is widely present in the general population. It is related with impaired quality of life, poor surgical success when the ‘point of no return’ has been exceeded, and excess mortality. Percutaneous solutions for the native tricuspid valve could revolutionize the management of TR in the same way it changed the management of mitral valve disease; less invasive and earlier intervention in the disease process. In this project we aim (1) to gain deeper insight into tricuspid valvular function and its relation with right ventricular geometry and fibrosis by using state-of-the art imaging techniques and biomarkers, (3) to optimize echocardiographic 3D modeling of the tricuspid valve area, and (3) to develop a tailored 3D printed size reductor that will be used as a support for a transcathether valve implantation in an animal model. This research proposal could provide an increased understanding of the development of TR and lead to a better patient selection and better timing of an intervention on the tricuspid valve.

Keywords:tricuspied klep

Disciplines:Cardiac and vascular medicine