Severe isolated tricuspid insufficiency in coronary artery disease.

We describe 3 patients who presented with severe cardiac disability as a result of tricuspid insufficiency, in the setting of severe coronary disease. Pertinent physical findings were signs of right heart failure, a tricuspid regurgitant murmur, and absence of left heart failure. Echocardiography and subsequent cardiac catheterization demonstrated significant tricuspid insufficiency, dilated right ventricle, impairment of right ventricular function, and preserved left ventricular function. Two patients were treated successfully with DeVega annuloplasty. Symptomatic tricuspid insufficiency can be seen in the setting of coronary artery disease and, when left ventricular function is well preserved, surgical correction is feasible.