tricuspid valve

The tricuspid valve is one of the four HEART VALVES and forms the opening between the RIGHT ATRIUM and RIGHT VENTRICLE. It contains three flexible flaps called CUSPS. The valve opens to allow BLOOD returning from the body to move from the right atrium into the right ventricle. It closes during ventricular contraction to prevent blood from flowing backward into the atrium. The tricuspid valve helps maintain normal CIRCULATION as blood moves toward the LUNGS through the PULMONARY ARTERY.

• Valve between right atrium and right ventricle • Contains three valve cusps • Controls blood flow on right side of heart • Prevents backward flow into the right atrium • Helps direct blood toward the lungs