Coronary artery disease affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by a narrowing or blocking of the arteries from plaque, which restricts blood flow and reduces the amount of oxygen to the heart.

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) helps doctors analyze blockages in coronary arteries to better treat the disease.

• St. Jude Medical estimates that the global FFR technology market will exceed $200 million in 2012.

• The future FFR market potential will exceed $1 billion, St. Jude officials say.