FFR

Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) is an advanced diagnostic technique used to measure the pressure differences across a coronary artery stenosis (narrowing) to assess the severity of blood flow restriction. At Aruna Cardiac Care Hospital, Tirunelveli, FFR is utilized to make informed decisions about the need for angioplasty, stenting, or other interventions in patients with coronary artery disease.

FFR is crucial for determining whether a coronary artery blockage is significantly affecting blood flow to the heart muscle. Unlike traditional angiography, which provides images of the arteries, FFR provides functional information about the severity of blockages. This helps cardiologists decide if a blockage is significant enough to require treatment or if it can be managed with medication alone.

FFR is typically recommended in cases where:

• Moderate Coronary Artery Disease: When angiography shows moderate narrowing, and it’s unclear if the narrowing is causing ischemia (reduced blood flow).
• Multivessel Disease: In patients with multiple blockages, FFR helps identify which blockages are functionally significant and require intervention.
• Borderline Lesions: For lesions that appear borderline in severity on angiography, FFR can provide more definitive information.

• Preparation: The procedure is usually performed during a coronary angiogram. You will be given a local anesthetic, and a mild sedative may be administered to help you relax.
• The Procedure:
  • Catheter Insertion: A thin catheter is inserted through the groin or wrist and guided to the coronary arteries.
  • Pressure Wire: A special pressure-sensing wire is passed through the catheter and positioned across the narrowed area of the artery.
  • Measurement: A small amount of adenosine, a medication that temporarily dilates the coronary arteries, is administered to increase blood flow. The pressure measurements taken before and after the stenosis are compared to calculate the FFR value.
  • Analysis: An FFR value of 1.0 indicates normal blood flow, while a value of 0.80 or less suggests that the narrowing is significant enough to benefit from treatment such as angioplasty or stenting.
• Completion: The procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes, and the catheter and pressure wire are removed once the measurements are complete.

• Results and Recommendations: The results of the FFR test are available immediately. If the FFR indicates significant blockage, your cardiologist will discuss the next steps, which may include angioplasty, stenting, or coronary artery bypass surgery.
• Recovery: Since FFR is part of the angiogram procedure, your recovery will be similar. You will be monitored for a short period before being allowed to go home, usually on the same day.
• Follow-Up Care: Depending on the FFR results and any additional procedures, you will have follow-up appointments to monitor your heart health and ensure optimal recovery.

At Aruna Cardiac Care Hospital, Tirunelveli, we are committed to providing:

• Precision: FFR allows us to make precise decisions about the best treatment for your condition, avoiding unnecessary procedures.
• Expert Team: Our experienced cardiologists are trained in the latest techniques and technologies, ensuring accurate and effective care.
• Comprehensive Cardiac Care: From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, we offer a full range of services to manage your heart health.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for FFR, please contact us at +91 9487 66 55 77. Our dedicated team is here to help you achieve the best possible heart health.