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Advanced Technical IVT

minimal lumen area

Smallest cross-sectional area within a coronary vessel segment, measured by intravascular imaging.

Full Definition

Minimal lumen area (MLA) is the smallest cross-sectional luminal area measured within a coronary artery segment, typically assessed using intravascular ultrasound or optical coherence tomography. MLA is a critical parameter for determining the hemodynamic significance of coronary stenoses and for guiding interventional procedures. An MLA less than 4.0 mm² in the left main coronary artery or less than 2.5-3.0 mm² in other major epicardial vessels is generally considered hemodynamically significant. Post-stent MLA is an important predictor of clinical outcomes, with larger areas associated with reduced risk of stent failure.

Usage

Usage note: MLA abbreviation widely accepted; ensure consistent unit reporting (mm²).

In Context

  • "The minimal lumen area of 1.8 mm² confirmed hemodynamically significant stenosis requiring intervention." — IVUS interpretation report
  • "Post-stent minimal lumen area exceeded 7.0 mm², suggesting optimal procedural result." — Interventional procedure summary

Also known as

MLA minimum luminal area

Contrasted with

maximal lumen area

Don't confuse with

minimal stent area reference vessel area plaque area

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