myocardial blush grade
An angiographic assessment of microvascular perfusion that evaluates tissue-level reperfusion beyond epicardial coronary flow restoration.
Full Definition
Myocardial blush grade (MBG) is a standardized angiographic measure that assesses microvascular reperfusion in the myocardium supplied by a coronary artery. The grading system ranges from 0 (no blush or contrast density) to 3 (normal blush with normal washout), providing information about tissue-level perfusion that complements epicardial flow measurements like TIMI flow grade. Studies have shown that patients with poor myocardial blush grades (0-1) have worse clinical outcomes despite achieving normal epicardial flow, highlighting the importance of microvascular integrity in myocardial infarction recovery. MBG assessment requires careful attention to contrast timing and density in the myocardial territory.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the scale (0-3) when first mentioned; avoid confusion with other perfusion grading systems.
In Context
- "Myocardial blush grade 0-1 was associated with larger infarct size despite successful epicardial reperfusion." — Research findings
- "Two independent cardiologists assessed myocardial blush grade in all patients achieving TIMI 3 flow." — Methodology description