Evaluating tricuspid regurgitation: what the guidelines say

A minor degree of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is present in almost all patients, while significant TR increases morbidity and mortality. The acquisition of quality images and measurements for evaluating TR are therefore an important skill set for cardiac sonographers. Moreover, an abnormality of the supporting structures (the valve annulus, right ventricle and right atrium) is the most common cause of TR – so an accurate evaluation of these structures is key. TR also occurs as a result of abnormal valve leaflets: optimal ways to image the leaflets and to identify the severity of the regurgitation are also essential. This requires the skilful and integrated use of multiple methods to assess the components of the regurgitant jet and to make qualitative estimates and quantitative measurements. These and other principle aspects of recently published guidelines for the evaluation of TR with echocardiography are the focus of this presentation.