TRAUMATIC TRICUSPID REGURGITATION IN A 13 YEAR OLD NIGERIAN MALE; A CASE REPORT
Authors & Affiliations
Charles O. Okorie, Nwagboso Chima, Arua Onyinye, Amobi Ugomma, Egwim Onyinye.
📖 Abstract Content
Background Traumatic tricuspid regurgitation from blunt chest trauma is an uncommon cause of right ventricular systolic dysfunction. Diagnosis is made by echocardiography and surgical repair or replacement is usually required.
Case Report A 13 year old Nigerian male who had no prior illness was involved in a road traffic accident. He was seated at the back of the saloon car when was hit by a truck. He hit his chest on the seat in front of him. He developed shortness of breath 4 days after the accident. Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE) showed very severe tricuspid regurgitation with a ruptured tricuspid valve leaflet. A diagnosis of Traumatic Tricuspid Rupture with Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation was made and he had Tricuspid valve repair and was discharged with no complications.
Discussion This particular case emphasizes the relevance of early echocardiography following blunt chest trauma as traumatic valve rupture remains a distinct possibility. Early surgical intervention is key for preventing adverse outcomes.
Conclusion Traumatic tricuspid regurgitation is an uncommon but possible sequelae of blunt chest trauma. Early diagnosis and intervention is key to life saving outcomes.
