fractional flow reserve
Also written as: FFR — fractional flow reserve
A hemodynamic index used to assess the functional significance of coronary stenoses during cardiac catheterization.
Full Definition
Fractional flow reserve (FFR) is a physiological measurement that represents the ratio of maximum achievable blood flow in a stenotic vessel to the theoretical maximum flow in the same vessel if it were normal. It is calculated as the ratio of distal coronary pressure to aortic pressure during maximal hyperemia, typically induced by adenosine. An FFR value below 0.80 is generally considered hemodynamically significant and may warrant revascularization. This measurement helps clinicians determine whether a coronary lesion is functionally significant rather than relying solely on angiographic appearance.
Usage
Usage note: Always lowercase when spelled out; FFR is acceptable as abbreviation in subsequent uses.
In Context
- "The FFR measurement of 0.75 confirmed the hemodynamic significance of the mid-LAD stenosis." — Cardiac catheterization report
- "Fractional flow reserve-guided PCI has been shown to improve clinical outcomes compared to angiography-guided intervention." — Clinical research paper