What is the Kent sign (Kent bundle branch block)?

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Last updated: April 30, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Kent's sign is not a relevant clinical finding in the context of tricuspid regurgitation or heart failure, and its discussion is not applicable to the provided evidence. The evidence provided focuses on tricuspid regurgitation, its etiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management strategies, with no mention of Kent's sign.

Key Points to Consider

  • Tricuspid regurgitation is a common finding, especially in the elderly, and affects women more frequently than men 1.
  • The tricuspid valve has a broad anatomical variability, and tricuspid regurgitation can be primary or secondary, with secondary being the most prevalent 1.
  • Significant tricuspid regurgitation leads to worsening prognosis, regardless of the underlying etiology, and should be addressed as a separate therapeutic target 1, 2, 3, 4.
  • Management strategies for tricuspid regurgitation include surgical repair, transcatheter TV replacement, and repair systems, which have shown efficacy and safety in patients not eligible for surgery 1, 4.
  • Multimodality imaging plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, management, and determination of outcomes in patients with tricuspid regurgitation and right heart failure 3.

Clinical Implications

  • Tricuspid regurgitation should be managed aggressively to improve outcomes, and transcatheter options are being explored to improve survival and reduce heart failure hospitalizations 4.
  • The high in-hospital mortality associated with isolated tricuspid valve surgery highlights the need for alternative treatment options, such as transcatheter therapy 4.
  • Understanding the pathophysiology of tricuspid regurgitation and right heart failure is crucial for determining the best treatment strategy and improving outcomes 3.

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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