Fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurement involves determining the ratio between the maximum achievable blood flow in a diseased coronary artery and the theoretical maximum flow in a normal coronary artery. An FFR of 1.0 is widely accepted as normal. An FFR lower than 0.75-0.80 is generally considered to be associated with myocardial ischemia.

Indications for Fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurement are as follows:

• To determine the physiologic and hemodynamic significance of an angiographically intermediate coronary stenosis
• To identify appropriate culprit lesion(s) in multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD)
• To measure the functional importance of stenosis in the presence of distal collateral flow
• To identify the precise location of a coronary lesion when the angiographic image is unclear

Why Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) is Performed?

The arteries of the heart (coronary arteries) deliver oxygen-rich blood to your heart muscle. If a coronary artery becomes partially blocked, it can decrease oxygen supply to areas of the heart muscle. This can result in a heart attack.

However, not every partially blocked artery causes reduced oxygen to the heart tissue. Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) testing helps your doctor determine whether your blockage needs immediate treatment or if it can be carefully monitored for a while. Dr. Kartik Bhosale may recommend FFR if you are experiencing chest pain, which can be a sign that your heart is not getting enough oxygen. Usually,Dr. Jayesh Sharma combines FFR testing with cardiac catheterization. This lets your doctor see the inside of your coronary arteries to look for blockages.

What are the benefits of the Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) Test?

• Provides a more detailed view of the significance of your coronary artery blockage than a standard coronary CT scan
• Non-invasive – no additional risk to you
• Reduces the need for follow-up testing and evaluation
• Helps your doctor better determine the appropriate treatment of care