physiological lesion assessment
Evaluation of coronary stenosis functional significance using pressure or flow-based measurements rather than angiographic appearance alone.
Full Definition
Physiological lesion assessment employs invasive pressure or flow measurements to determine the hemodynamic significance of coronary stenoses, moving beyond visual angiographic estimation. This approach includes fractional flow reserve (FFR), instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR), and coronary flow reserve measurements. Physiological assessment provides objective evidence of lesion-specific ischemia and helps guide revascularization decisions, particularly for intermediate stenoses where angiographic severity may not correlate with functional impact. Studies demonstrate improved clinical outcomes when revascularization decisions are guided by physiological rather than purely anatomical criteria, leading to more appropriate patient selection for intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the measurement technique used (FFR, iFR, CFR) when documenting physiological assessment results.
In Context
- "Physiological lesion assessment revealed a non-ischemic stenosis despite 60% angiographic narrowing, leading to deferral of intervention." — Cardiac catheterization report
- "The intermediate LAD lesion underwent physiological assessment to determine revascularization necessity." — Procedural planning note