What is the function of the tricuspid valve?

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Function of the Tricuspid Valve

The tricuspid valve is located between the right atrium and right ventricle and functions as a one-way valve that prevents blood backflow from the right ventricle into the right atrium during ventricular contraction (systole). 1, 2

Anatomical Structure and Components

The tricuspid valve complex consists of several integrated components that work together to ensure proper function 1:

  • Annulus: A saddle-shaped fibrous ring that anchors the valve leaflets 3
  • Three leaflets of unequal size 1:
    • Anterior leaflet (usually the largest): extends from the infundibular region anteriorly to the inferolateral wall posteriorly
    • Septal leaflet: extends from the interventricular septum to the posterior ventricular border
    • Posterior leaflet: attaches along the posterior margin of the annulus from the septum to the inferolateral wall
  • Chordae tendineae: fibrous cords connecting leaflets to papillary muscles 1
  • Papillary muscles: muscular projections from the right ventricular wall 1
  • Right ventricle: provides the structural support and contractile force 4

Physiological Mechanism

The tricuspid valve operates through a pressure-gradient mechanism during the cardiac cycle 2, 5:

During Diastole (Ventricular Filling)

  • The valve opens when right atrial pressure exceeds right ventricular pressure 2
  • Blood flows passively from the right atrium into the right ventricle 1
  • The leaflets move downward toward the ventricle 1

During Systole (Ventricular Contraction)

  • The valve closes when right ventricular pressure exceeds right atrial pressure 2
  • The three leaflets coapt (come together) to form a seal 1
  • This prevents regurgitation of blood back into the right atrium 2, 5
  • The chordae tendineae and papillary muscles prevent leaflet prolapse into the atrium 1

Clinical Significance

In normal hearts, the tricuspid valve guards the right atrium and systemic veins from the pressure generated in the right ventricle, maintaining central venous pressure below 10 mmHg while systolic pulmonary artery pressure remains above 15 mmHg 1.

The valve's proper function is essential for unidirectional blood flow through the right side of the heart, ensuring efficient delivery of deoxygenated blood from the systemic circulation to the pulmonary circulation for oxygenation 2, 3.

Key Anatomical Distinction

The insertion of the septal leaflet of the tricuspid valve is characteristically positioned more apically (toward the apex) relative to the septal insertion of the anterior mitral leaflet on the left side of the heart 1. This anatomical feature helps distinguish the right ventricle from the left ventricle on imaging studies.

References

1
Guideline

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Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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