[Tricuspid catheter-balloon valvuloplasty. Report of 4 cases]. / Valvoplastia tricúspide por cateter balão. Relato de quatro casos.

ABSTRACT

Tricuspid stenosis was treated in four patients by percutaneous balloon valvotomy. A mean pressure gradient equal or higher than 3 mmHg across the tricuspid valve using Doppler echocardiography and the increase of this pressure gradient during inspiration were the most significant criteria for diagnosis and quantification of tricuspid stenosis. There was a considerable hemodynamic improvement with reduction of the tricuspid valve gradient and relief of symptoms after balloon tricuspid valvotomy.