Tricuspid regurgitation is when the heart’s tricuspid valve doesn't close properly. When this happens, blood that's supposed to flow out of the heart flows backward instead. This interruption in regular blood flow leads to symptoms like fatigue and swelling. A procedure called TriClip can help.
TriClip is a minimally invasive procedure designed to replace the need for open-heart surgery in people with tricuspid regurgitation. With TriClip, cardiologists use a transcatheter edge repair technique, and no chest incisions are needed.
During the TriClip procedure, a catheter is inserted through a vein in the leg and carefully routed to the heart. The clip is then placed on the tricuspid valve leaflets. You can think of those leaflets like doors that have trouble closing. The clip helps those doors close more securely, reducing regurgitation. Because the procedure is catheter-based, it results in a faster recovery time compared to traditional surgery. Most patients can expect to return home within just a couple days and resume light activities soon after.
Preparing for the TriClip procedure involves a few important steps to help ensure everything goes smoothly and you feel as comfortable as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
Prior to the procedure: Consult with your doctor
Before the procedure, your healthcare team will conduct tests, such as an echocardiogram, transesophageal echocardiogram and/or CT scan, to assess your heart condition and confirm that TriClip is the best option for you. Your comfort is important, so be sure to ask any questions you have during the consultation.
Fasting
You will be instructed not to eat or drink anything for a set period before the procedure, typically starting at midnight the night before. Your care team will provide specific fasting guidelines.
Medications
Your healthcare provider may adjust your current medications before the procedure. Make sure you understand which medications you need to take or stop taking, and follow these instructions carefully.
Arrange transportation
Because the procedure involves sedation, it’s important to have someone available to drive you home afterward.
Prepare for a short stay
Most patients stay in the hospital for one or two days after the procedure for observation. Bring essentials such as comfortable clothes and toiletries to make your stay more pleasant.
After your TriClip procedure, you’ll spend a short period in the hospital, usually one to two days, where your healthcare team will closely monitor your recovery. It's normal to experience some soreness or bruising at the catheter insertion site, but this discomfort typically resolves within a few days.
Recovery at home
Once at home, you should plan on resting and avoiding any strenuous activities for a couple weeks. Light activities, such as walking, are encouraged to aid circulation, but heavy lifting should be avoided until your doctor gives you clearance. Your healthcare team will also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure your heart is healing well.
Managing discomfort
Mild pain or discomfort after the procedure is common, and your doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage it. Be sure to take any medications as prescribed.
Diet and hydration
Maintaining a heart-healthy diet is important. It's best to avoid foods high in salt. Staying well hydrated and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins will support your recovery and overall heart health.
Listen to your body
Feeling tired after the procedure is normal, but if you experience symptoms such as increased shortness of breath, chest pain or swelling, contact your healthcare team right away.
The heart of the matter
People with tricuspid regurgitation experience high levels of fatigue and swelling of the legs, ankles, abdomen, and sometimes the liver. TriClip is an innovative solution that brings relief without the worry of major surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Tricuspid regurgitation occurs when the tricuspid valve does not close properly, allowing blood to flow backward into the right atrium. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, swelling and shortness of breath.
Yes, the TriClip procedure is FDA-approved for treating tricuspid regurgitation. Endeavor Health is proud to offer this advanced, life-improving treatment option to our patients.
As with any medical procedure, there are risks, including bleeding, infection or potential complications. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure, and help you make the decision that feels best for you.
TriClip and MitraClip are both minimally invasive procedures that use a clip to improve valve function and better direct the flow of blood. However, they treat different valves in the heart. MitraClip is used to repair the mitral valve, while TriClip focuses on the tricuspid valve. Although both procedures involve similar techniques, the valves they target and the conditions they treat are different. Both procedures are ideal for patients who need valve repair without having to undergo open-heart surgery.
During a TriClip procedure, a catheter is inserted through a vein in the leg and carefully routed to the heart. The clip is then placed on the tricuspid valve leaflets to help them close and reduce the chances of regurgitation.
- Minimally invasive: No need for open-heart surgery, which means smaller incisions and a quicker recovery.
- Improves quality of life: Patients often experience reduced symptoms, such as less fatigue and swelling.
- Suitable for high-risk patients: TriClip is an excellent option for patients who have not improved despite medications.
- Shorter hospital stay: Most patients can return home within a couple days.
Candidates for TriClip include patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation who have not improved with medications. Your physician will evaluate your condition and help determine if this treatment is right for you.
Your doctor may decide to adjust your current medications or prescribe new ones before the procedure. It’s important that you have a firm understanding of the proper dosage of your medications before being released from the hospital.
Make an appointment
Heart health is within reach. Schedule an appointment with our team to discuss the right course of treatment for you.
Related treatment options
TAVI, also known as TAVR (transcatheter aortic valve replacement), is a breakthrough for patients with severe aortic stenosis, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional valve replacement. This procedure involves threading an artificial valve through the blood vessels to replace the damaged aortic valve without requiring open-heart surgery.
For narrowed valves, balloon valvuloplasty can be used to widen the valve opening, allowing for better blood flow. This is often recommended for patients with conditions like mitral or aortic stenosis.
When needed, our skilled cardiac surgeons perform open-heart surgery, using either biological or mechanical valves to replace the damaged heart valve. For certain cases, the procedure involves the heart-lung bypass machine to ensure patient safety and effective blood circulation throughout the surgery.
A minimally invasive procedure to repair the mitral valve by clipping the leaflets together, reducing mitral valve regurgitation.
At Endeavor Health Cardiovascular Institute, we are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of care to every patient. With advanced technologies, a compassionate team and a personalized approach, we’re here to support you through every step of your heart health journey.
