Reduction of coronary flow reserve non-invasively determined by transthoracic Doppler echocardiography as a predictor of left anterior descending coronary artery stenosis.

Abstract

By use of transthoracic echocardiography combined with contrast agents it is possible to visualize blood flow velocities in the LAD and to evaluate coronary flow reserve after dipyridamole infusion with a non-invasive approach. Combined with angiographic findings, this diagnostic approach could be useful in giving additional information to assess the functional significance of a stenotic coronary lesion.