SYNTAX score
Pronunciation: SIN-tax
Also written as: SYNTAX — SYNergy between PCI with TAXus and Cardiac Surgery
An angiographic scoring system used to assess the complexity of coronary artery disease and guide revascularization strategy.
Full Definition
The SYNTAX score is a comprehensive angiographic tool that quantifies the complexity and extent of coronary artery disease based on lesion characteristics, location, and vessel involvement. The score ranges from 0 to over 40, with higher scores indicating more complex disease. It was developed from the SYNTAX trial to help determine the optimal revascularization strategy (PCI versus CABG) for patients with left main or three-vessel coronary disease. The score considers factors such as lesion length, calcification, tortuosity, and bifurcation involvement.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize SYNTAX when referring to the score; derived from trial name.
In Context
- "The patient's SYNTAX score of 35 suggested that surgical revascularization would be preferred over PCI." — Heart team discussion
- "Low SYNTAX scores (≤22) indicate that PCI and CABG have equivalent outcomes." — Clinical guideline