Pulsatile Liver in Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation

AI Insight

This article describes the clinical presentation of pulsatile liver, a physical examination finding that occurs in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation. When the tricuspid valve fails to close properly, blood flows backward into the right atrium during ventricular contraction, causing transmitted pulsations that can be detected in the engorged liver. This creates a visible and palpable pulsation of the liver that corresponds with the patient's heartbeat.

Why it matters

Recognizing pulsatile liver during physical examination can help clinicians identify severe tricuspid regurgitation, which may require surgical intervention or medical management. This classic clinical sign reinforces the continued importance of bedside examination skills in the era of advanced cardiac imaging.