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Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Repair (TriClip)
Transcatheter tricuspid repair treats a leaking tricuspid valve with a small clip placed through a vein in the leg. The TriClip device uses the same edge-to-edge approach as mitral clip repair, designed for the tricuspid valve.
What it is
The tricuspid valve sits on the right side of the heart, between the right upper chamber and the right pumping chamber. In tricuspid regurgitation, the valve does not close well, so blood leaks backward toward the veins of the body. A severe leak can cause swelling in the legs and belly, a full feeling after small meals, poor appetite, tiredness and fluid buildup around the liver. Water pills (diuretics) can ease the swelling but do not fix the valve, and open surgery on the tricuspid valve alone carries high risk for many patients. The TriClip, approved by the FDA in 2024, grasps the valve leaflets together to reduce the leak.
Who it may help
Transcatheter tricuspid repair is for adults with severe tricuspid regurgitation who still have symptoms despite medical treatment, who are not good candidates for surgery, and whose valve shape suggests a clip will reduce the leak. Pacemaker or defibrillator wires that cross the valve can affect the decision and are reviewed case by case. A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) shows whether the valve is suitable.
How it's done
The procedure is done under general anesthesia. A catheter is placed in the large vein at the top of the leg and guided up to the right side of the heart. Unlike mitral repair, it does not need to cross into the left side of the heart. TEE imaging guides the clip as it grasps the leaflets, and the team measures the leak before releasing each clip. The procedure usually takes one to three hours.
Recovery
Most patients stay one or two nights. You will have a follow-up echocardiogram and visits to adjust medicines, especially water pills. Many patients notice less swelling and more energy over the following weeks, though results vary.
Risks
Possible risks include bleeding or injury to the leg vein, a remaining leak, a clip that loosens from one leaflet, heart rhythm problems, infection and irritation or injury from the TEE probe. Rarely, emergency surgery is needed or the procedure results in death. Your team will explain how these risks apply to you.
Dr. Smith's experience
In 2026, Dr. Smith performed Baton Rouge General's first TriClip and started the hospital's transcatheter tricuspid repair program. He brings experience from more than 25 transcatheter mitral repairs and more than 180 structural heart procedures as primary operator since 2023. He trained in structural heart disease at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and is board certified in echocardiography, the imaging that guides each clip.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between TriClip and MitraClip?
Both use small clips to hold valve leaflets together and reduce a leak. MitraClip treats the mitral valve on the left side of the heart. TriClip treats the tricuspid valve on the right side.
Is tricuspid regurgitation serious?
Mild leaks are common and often harmless. A severe leak can cause swelling, tiredness and fluid buildup, and is linked with worse long-term health. An echocardiogram measures how severe it is.
Will TriClip let me stop my water pills?
Some patients need less diuretic after repair, but this is not guaranteed. Your doctor will adjust your medicines based on your symptoms and tests.
Can I have TriClip if I have a pacemaker?
Sometimes. Pacemaker or defibrillator wires can affect whether a clip will work. Your team reviews this on your TEE before deciding.
How do I know if I am a candidate?
The first step is an evaluation with a structural heart cardiologist, including an echocardiogram and usually a TEE. Your doctor will review your symptoms, other health problems and valve anatomy.
Is TriClip available in Baton Rouge?
Yes. Baton Rouge General Medical Center offers transcatheter tricuspid repair. Call CIS Baton Rouge at (225) 308-0247 to ask about an evaluation.
Ask about tricuspid valve repair (TriClip) at Cardiovascular Institute of the South
Dr. Smith sees patients at CIS Baton Rouge, 8401 Picardy Avenue · (225) 308-0247, and CIS Zachary, 6550 Main Street, Suite 1000 · (225) 654-1559. Your primary care doctor or cardiologist can also send a referral.