Percutaneous edge-to-edge repair in the setting of a severe systemic tricuspid regurgitation complicating a congenitally-corrected transposition of great arteries

Objectives This study sought to report the specific considerations and implications of percutaneous edge-to-edge repair in one case of severe systemic tricuspid regurgitation (STR). Background In congenitally-corrected transposition of great arteries (ccTGA) tricuspid valve results spontaneously in systemic position. In this situation, progressive STR and systemic right ventricular (SRV) dysfunction are frequently observed, leading ultimately to altered functional capacities and pulmonary edema. In this setting surgical valve repair or replacement is challenging given the underlying SRV failure, therefore heart transplant is usually preferred. However, recent studies have underlined the reliability of edge-to-edge repair for secondary severe tricuspid and mitral regurgitation. Few data are currently available concerning the percutaneous management of STR. Case management We report about the case of a 59 year-old man presenting with dyspnea and mild peripheral edema. He was known for non-operated ccTGA with SRV ejection fraction (EF) of 25%, and severe STR, defined as an effective regurgitant orifice area of 40 mm2. The patient was in theory eligible for heart transplant but a percutaneous approach was first attempted. The procedure was performed under general anesthesia, transesophageal echocardiography guidance and through a femoral vein route. A MitraClip XTR device (Abbott Vascular, Santa Clara, CA) was successfully implanted between the septal and the anterior leaflets, without any complication ( Fig. 1 ). After the procedure the STR improved dramatically from grade IV to I. After 2 years follow-up the patient is still asymptomatic and free from severe STR, concomitantly SRV EF improved up to 32% under optimal medical treatment. Conclusions Percutaneous edge-to-edge therapy of STR in ccTGA seems to be feasible, safe and effective to reduce regurgitation grade, to limit SRV dilatation and to improve patient symptoms.