fractional flow reserve
Invasive measurement comparing maximum achievable coronary blood flow in a stenotic vessel to normal flow.
Full Definition
Fractional flow reserve (FFR) is a hemodynamic assessment technique that measures the functional significance of coronary stenoses by comparing distal coronary pressure to aortic pressure during maximum hyperemia. This ratio provides information about whether a specific lesion causes ischemia, helping guide decisions about revascularization. FFR values less than 0.80 are generally considered hemodynamically significant, indicating that the stenosis likely causes myocardial ischemia and may benefit from intervention. The technique has been validated in multiple clinical trials and is considered the gold standard for assessing lesion significance.
Usage
Usage note: Requires adenosine administration to achieve maximal hyperemia during measurement.
In Context
- "The fractional flow reserve measurement was 0.75, indicating hemodynamically significant stenosis." — Cardiac catheterization report
- "FFR-guided percutaneous intervention resulted in improved clinical outcomes compared to angiography alone." — Clinical trial results