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Intermediate Technical IVT

Atrioventricular Valve Regurgitation

Backward flow through the tricuspid or mitral valve, common in congenital heart disease.

Full Definition

Atrioventricular valve regurgitation refers to the abnormal backward flow of blood through either the tricuspid (right) or mitral (left) atrioventricular valve during ventricular contraction. In congenital heart disease, this condition frequently occurs due to structural abnormalities of the valve leaflets, chordae tendineae, or papillary muscles, or as a consequence of ventricular dysfunction and annular dilatation. The severity is typically graded as trivial, mild, moderate, or severe based on echocardiographic criteria including regurgitant jet characteristics, vena contracta width, and quantitative measures. Significant regurgitation can lead to volume overload, ventricular dysfunction, and symptoms of heart failure, often requiring surgical intervention or valve replacement.

Usage

Usage note: Specify which valve (tricuspid or mitral) when anatomically relevant.

In Context

  • "Severe atrioventricular valve regurgitation was identified as the primary indication for surgical intervention." — Surgical Consultation
  • "Progressive atrioventricular valve regurgitation developed following the Fontan operation." — Follow-up Report

Also known as

AV valve regurgitation AV valve insufficiency

Contrasted with

atrioventricular valve stenosis

Don't confuse with

aortic regurgitation pulmonary regurgitation

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