coronary flow reserve
Also written as: CFR — coronary flow reserve
The ability of coronary circulation to increase blood flow in response to maximal vasodilation, indicating microvascular function.
Full Definition
Coronary flow reserve (CFR) represents the maximum capacity of the coronary circulation to increase blood flow above resting levels in response to pharmacological or physiological stimuli. It is typically measured as the ratio of hyperemic to resting coronary blood flow. Impaired CFR may indicate microvascular dysfunction even in the absence of epicardial coronary stenosis, making it an important marker for cardiovascular risk assessment and therapeutic monitoring in prevention strategies.
In Context
- "Despite normal coronary angiography, the patient's reduced coronary flow reserve suggested microvascular disease requiring intensified prevention efforts." — Cardiac imaging report