Does fractional flow reserve impact on clinical outcomes by reducing number of stents and contrast media? Findings from a systematic review (N = 56,185) and meta-analysis
Fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a recommended strategy for revascularization in patients with coronary artery disease that holds a recommendation IA in current revascularization guidelines [ ]. This is supported by published evidence, as demonstrated in a recent meta-analysis by Sanz-Sanchez et al. [ ] Yet, the reason(s) as to why FFR-PCI may reduce cardiovascular events remains unknown. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of FFR-guided PCI on clinical outcomes as well as on procedural characteristics such as use of stents and contrast media.