Angiographic assessment of microvascular perfusion--myocardial blush in clinical practice

Am Heart J. 2010 Dec;160(6):1015-22. doi: 10.1016/j.ahj.2010.08.009.

Abstract

Assessment of myocardial "blush" by either Myocardial Blush Grade or TIMI Myocardial Perfusion Grade, is the angiographic method currently preferred to confirm myocardial tissue-level perfusion after primary percutaneous intervention. This review focuses on the utility of angiographic "blush" as a simple, widely available, and virtually costless technique for the immediate diagnosis of microvascular impairment at the time of acute catheterization. We comprehensively outline the available evidence behind the "blush," its use in clinical practice, and draw comparisons with other new technologies for assessment of microvascular integrity.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary
  • Coronary Angiography / methods*
  • Coronary Circulation / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Microcirculation*
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnostic imaging*
  • Myocardial Infarction / physiopathology
  • Myocardial Infarction / therapy
  • Severity of Illness Index