SYNTAX score
Angiographic scoring system that quantifies the complexity and extent of coronary artery disease.
Full Definition
The SYNTAX score is a comprehensive angiographic scoring system developed to objectively quantify the complexity and extent of coronary artery disease. It assigns numerical values based on lesion characteristics including location, morphology, calcification, and bifurcation involvement. The score is used to guide treatment decisions between percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass grafting. Higher SYNTAX scores indicate more complex disease and are associated with increased procedural risk and worse long-term outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from SYNTAX II score, which incorporates clinical variables alongside anatomical complexity.
In Context
- "Patients with SYNTAX scores >32 showed superior outcomes with surgical revascularization compared to percutaneous intervention." — Treatment guideline
- "The SYNTAX score calculator requires careful assessment of each lesion's anatomical characteristics." — Procedural manual