tricuspid atresia
A congenital heart defect characterized by absent or imperforate tricuspid valve, preventing normal blood flow from right atrium to right ventricle.
Full Definition
Tricuspid atresia is a cyanotic congenital heart defect where the tricuspid valve fails to develop normally, resulting in no direct communication between the right atrium and right ventricle. Blood enters the right atrium but must cross to the left atrium through an atrial septal defect, then reach the right ventricle via a ventricular septal defect when present. The condition is classified based on associated abnormalities including the presence or absence of pulmonary stenosis and transposition of great arteries. Most patients require staged surgical palliation culminating in Fontan circulation. The right ventricle is typically hypoplastic due to reduced flow during fetal development.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from tricuspid stenosis where valve tissue is present but narrowed.
In Context
- "The autopsy confirmed tricuspid atresia with a hypoplastic right ventricle and large ventricular septal defect." — congenital heart disease autopsy
- "Echocardiography demonstrated tricuspid atresia with absence of flow across the tricuspid valve." — pediatric cardiology report