bifurcation lesion
A coronary stenosis occurring at the junction where a vessel divides into two branches.
Full Definition
A bifurcation lesion is a type of coronary stenosis that involves the point where a main coronary vessel divides into two significant branches, creating complex anatomical and technical challenges for percutaneous intervention. These lesions are classified according to the Medina classification system, which describes involvement of the main vessel, side branch, and ostium of the side branch. Bifurcation lesions require specialized techniques including provisional side branch stenting, systematic two-stent approaches, or dedicated bifurcation devices. The complexity arises from the risk of side branch compromise, difficulty in achieving optimal stent positioning, and increased procedural time and contrast use.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier. Medina classification should be formatted as numbers separated by commas.
In Context
- "The complex bifurcation lesion required a two-stent technique to preserve both the LAD and diagonal branch." — Interventional case report
- "Medina 1,1,1 bifurcation lesion was successfully treated with provisional side branch stenting." — Procedural summary