Advanced
Technical
IVT
collateral flow assessment
Evaluation of alternative blood pathways that develop to compensate for obstructed coronary vessels.
Full Definition
The systematic evaluation of naturally occurring or developed alternative blood supply routes that bypass significant coronary stenoses or occlusions. Collateral circulation is typically graded using the Rentrop classification system during angiography, with scores ranging from 0 (no visible collaterals) to 3 (complete collateral filling). This assessment is particularly important in chronic total occlusions and helps determine procedural feasibility, risk stratification, and potential for successful revascularization.
Usage
Usage note: Include Rentrop grade (0-3) when documenting collateral circulation.
In Context
- "Collateral flow assessment revealed Rentrop grade 2 circulation to the occluded RCA territory." — Angiographic report
- "Poor collateral flow assessment indicated higher procedural risk for CTO intervention." — Pre-procedural planning
Also known as
collateral circulation evaluation
alternative vessel assessment
Rentrop grading
Don't confuse with
coronary flow assessment
vessel patency evaluation