What are the three cusps of the tricuspid valve?

The tricuspid valve, located between the right atrium and right ventricle of the heart, consists of three distinct cusps: the anterior cusp, the medial (or septal) cusp, and the posterior cusp.

The anterior cusp is the largest and is situated at the front of the valve. The medial cusp is oriented towards the septum, separating the right atrium from the right ventricle, and plays a crucial role in preventing backflow of blood during systole. The posterior cusp is positioned towards the back and completes the triad of cusps that ensure the effective unidirectional flow of blood.

Understanding the cusps' names and their anatomical positions helps provide insight into the valve's structure and function during the cardiac cycle. This information is critical for cardiac sonographers when performing echocardiography, assessing valve function, and diagnosing related heart conditions.