Objective    To explore the feasibility of goat tricuspid regurgitation (TR) model by one chordae tendineae cutter via right anterior-lateral minimal incision. Methods    TR model was established in 6 goats with a self-made tricuspid valve chordae tendineae cutter. The goats were placed in a left lateral position and procedure was performed via a right anterior-lateral minimal thoracotomy in the fourth intercostal. Under the guidance of transesophageal ultrasound and digital subtraction angiography, the chordae tendineae of anterior leaflet was cut until moderate to severe regurgitation was confirmed. Echocardiography and laboratory examinations were performed preoperatively, immediately and 3 months after surgery. Additionally, all goats were sacrificed to clarify pathological evaluation. Results    TR was successfully established in 6 goats. The right atrium pressure increased significantly immediately after surgery (P<0.05). During a follow-up of 3 months, the progression of TR was aggravated (P<0.05), and the annular diameter increased from 2.15±0.23 cm to 2.65±0.20 cm. Overall, there was no statistically significant change in transvalvular gradient and velocity between preoperation and postoperation. Laboratory test results showed no abnormalities between preoperation and postoperation. Autopsy evaluation demonstrated obvioue chordae tendineae transection of the anterior leaflet. Conclusion    It is feasible to establish TR model via a right minimal anterior lateral thoracotomy in the fourth intercostal space. This novel TR goats model will allow investigation of transcatheter interventional device and serve as a chronic model in the future.

Recently, several transcatheter devices for aortic valve replacement and mitral valve repair have been used in clinic, and researchers have designed a variety of tricuspid valve (TV) intervention devices. We reviewed the current status of transcatheter TV intervention, and focused on the structures of these devices and the early results of clinical trials. Undoubtedly, transcatheter intervention for TV is promising, innovational and safe for patients with severe TV regurgitation.