Pulmonary valve insufficiency, also known as pulmonary regurgitation, is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal functioning of the pulmonary valve located between the right ventricle of the heart and the pulmonary artery. This valve is responsible for controlling the flow of oxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs.
In individuals with pulmonary valve insufficiency, the valve fails to close properly, causing blood to flow back into the right ventricle instead of moving forward into the pulmonary artery. This leads to the backward flow of blood, or regurgitation, during the ventricular relaxation phase.
The most common cause of pulmonary valve insufficiency is a congenital heart defect, such as Tetralogy of Fallot or pulmonary hypertension. It can also develop as a result of damage to the valve due to infections, connective tissue disorders, or prior heart surgeries.
Symptoms of pulmonary valve insufficiency may include fatigue, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, or swelling in the ankles or legs. In some cases, the condition may be asymptomatic.
Diagnosis of pulmonary valve insufficiency typically involves a thorough physical examination, listening for abnormal heart sounds, and conducting tests such as echocardiography, electrocardiogram, or cardiac catheterization.
Treatment for pulmonary valve insufficiency focuses on managing the underlying cause and symptoms. In mild cases, close monitoring and periodic evaluation may be sufficient. However, severe cases may call for surgical intervention, such as valve repair or replacement, to restore proper functioning and prevent complications like heart failure.
