FFR Meaning and
Definition
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FFR, acronym for Fractional Flow Reserve, refers to a medical technique used in cardiology to assess the severity of narrow or blocked coronary arteries. The term combines "fractional" - representing a portion or fraction, with "flow reserve" - relating to the measurement of blood flow capacity. FFR is a quantitative measurement performed during a coronary angiogram, a procedure where a special dye is injected into the arteries to visualize blood flow.
During FFR, a thin wire with a pressure sensor is inserted into the affected artery. The pressure sensor measures the blood pressure before and after the blockage, allowing the calculation of the ratio of maximum blood flow under normal conditions (without blockage) to maximum blood flow with the blockage. This ratio provides a numerical FFR value, giving valuable information about the impact of the blockage on blood flow.
An FFR value below 0.80 is generally considered indicative of a significant blockage that might benefit from interventional treatment, such as angioplasty or stenting. This technique helps doctors make informed decisions regarding the necessity of a surgical intervention, enabling them to identify which blockages are truly critical and require immediate action to restore blood flow.
FFR has become an essential tool in guiding treatment decisions, as it allows for a more precise assessment of blockages and aids cardiologists in recommending the most appropriate course of action for patients with coronary artery disease.
Common Misspellings for FFR
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