This procedure can only be done as part of a research study. This is because there is not enough evidence to be sure how well it works or how safe it is.
Your healthcare professional should talk to you about the research.
The tricuspid valve sits between the upper and lower chambers on the right side of the heart. Tricuspid regurgitation happens when the tricuspid valve does not close properly and blood flows the wrong way through it (regurgitation). The blood can also flow back (reflux) into the 2 main veins (caval veins) that bring blood back from the body to the heart. This makes the heart work harder and, if severe, can lead to heart failure.
In this procedure, valves made from animal or human tissue (bioprosthetic) are put (implanted) into 1 or both caval veins through a vein in the groin. This is done without disturbing the tricuspid valve. The aim is to reduce caval reflux and tricuspid regurgitation, reducing symptoms of heart failure and improving quality of life for people who cannot have open heart surgery.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work, or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS webpage on heart failure may be a good place to find out more.
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on interventional procedures recommendations explains only in research means.
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
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