Angiography-Based Fractional Flow Reserve: State of the Art

Curr Cardiol Rep. 2022 Jun;24(6):667-678. doi: 10.1007/s11886-022-01687-4. Epub 2022 Apr 18.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Three-dimensional quantitative coronary angiography-based methods of fractional flow reserve (FFR) derivation have emerged as an appealing alternative to conventional pressure-wire-based physiological lesion assessment and have the potential to further extend the use of physiology in general. Here, we summarize the current evidence related to angiography-based FFR and perspectives on future developments.

Recent findings: Growing evidence suggests good diagnostic performance of angiography-based FFR measurements, both in chronic and acute coronary syndromes, as well as in specific lesion subsets, such as long and calcified lesions, left main coronary stenosis, and bifurcations. More recently, promising results on the superiority of angiography-based FFR as compared to angiography-guided PCI have been published. Currently available angiography -FFR indices proved to be an excellent alternative to invasive pressure wire-based FFR. Dedicated prospective outcome data comparing these indices to routine guideline recommended PCI including the use of FFR are eagerly awaited.

Keywords: Angiography-based FFR; FFRangio; Functional lesion assessment; Percutaneous coronary intervention; Quantitative flow ratio; Vessel FFR.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Coronary Angiography / methods
  • Coronary Artery Disease*
  • Coronary Stenosis* / diagnostic imaging
  • Coronary Vessels / diagnostic imaging
  • Fractional Flow Reserve, Myocardial* / physiology
  • Humans
  • Percutaneous Coronary Intervention*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Prospective Studies
  • Severity of Illness Index