Clinical results of tricuspid valve replacement - a 21-case report.

Objective: To summarize the clinical experiences of 21 patients treated with tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) and investigate the surgical indications and methods.

Methods: Data from 21 patients who underwent TVR from December 2002 to March 2009 were retrospectively collected and analyzed. The mean age was 48.86±15.37 years (range: 20-72 years). The underlying disease of the patients was classified as rheumatic (n = 10), congenital (n = 8), endocarditis (n = 2) or chest trauma (n = 1). Previous cardiac surgery had been performed in 12 patients (57.14%).

Results: In-hospital death occurred in two patients (9.52%). Postoperative morbidities included cardiac failure (n = 2), bleeding related re-operation (n = 1), and plural effusion (n = 2).

Conclusion: The early outcomes of TVR were acceptable. At the present time TVR can be performed through optimal perioperative management.