FAST III Trial Validates CAAS vFFR as a Competent Alternative to Wire-Based FFR

The FAST III trial, initiated five years ago, evaluates the effectiveness of angiography-based FFR using CAAS vFFR against the traditional pressure wire-based FFR for guiding revascularization. The study's results confirm the non-inferiority of vFFR, validating it as a safe and effective alternative. This finding may pave the way for the reimbursement of less invasive testing methods for patients with intermediate coronary stenoses.

The trial involved 2235 patients and compared vFFR guided versus FFR guided coronary revascularization. Results showed identical major adverse cardiac event (MACE) rates at the one-year follow-up. The use of vFFR reduces the need for invasive procedures and patient discomfort, marking a significant advancement in cardiovascular care.

Funded by Pie Medical Imaging and Siemens Healthineers, the study was sponsored by the European Cardiovascular Research Institute. The success of FAST III highlights the potential of angiography-based approaches to enhance patient prognosis with greater safety and efficiency.