Three-dimensional angle assessment and plaque distribution classification in left main disease: Impact of geometry on outcome

Abstract

Bifurcation geometry and plaque distribution in a diseased left main artery (LM) have the potential to drive operators' decisions regarding treatment strategies, techniques, and material selection. The three-dimensional (3D) geometry of the LM bifurcation typically results in specific patterns of plaque distribution. Plaque distribution may, in turn, significantly affect the procedural and long-term clinical and angiographic outcomes of LM percutaneous coronary intervention. Each LM bifurcation must be treated according to its unique anatomic and pathologic characteristics. Novel classification schemes of plaque distribution and 3D assessment may be valuable aids to obtaining a working picture of the bifurcation geometry.