Tricuspid valve flow normally does what with inspiration?

During inspiration, the pressure in the thoracic cavity decreases due to the diaphragm moving downwards and the chest expanding. This negative pressure facilitates increased venous return to the right atrium, which in turn leads to an increased flow across the tricuspid valve. As the right atrial pressure drops, blood from the systemic circulation is drawn more effectively into the right heart, causing a slight increase in tricuspid valve flow.

This physiological phenomenon demonstrates the relationship between respiratory mechanics and cardiac function, where the changes in intrathoracic pressure during inspiration augment right-sided heart filling. The tricuspid valve, situated between the right atrium and right ventricle, reflects this increase in flow as well, resulting in slightly enhanced forward flow through the valve during inspiration. Understanding this concept is crucial for interpreting echocardiographic findings and assessing right heart function, especially in dynamic situations like respiration.