Semi-Automated Plaque Assessment in Cardiac CT: Prognostic Value in Long-Term Follow-Up of Intermediate Stenosis

TL;DR

This study shows that detailed plaque analysis in cardiac CT scans can help predict long-term risks for patients with intermediate coronary artery blockages.

Contribution

The study introduces a semi-automated method for analyzing plaque characteristics in CCTA to improve risk prediction for intermediate stenosis.

Findings

High-risk plaque features were more common in patients who experienced MACE.

Lesions linked to MACE showed smaller lumen area and larger necrotic core areas.

A multivariable model combining lumen geometry and plaque composition showed significant prognostic value.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Intermediate coronary artery stenosis is difficult to risk-stratify, as stenosis severity alone often fails to predict events. This study aimed to evaluate whether quantitative CCTA-derived plaque characteristics and lesion morphology are associated with MACE during long-term follow-up. Methods: In this single-center prospective study, 128 patients with stable angina symptoms underwent standardized CCTA and were diagnosed with at least one intermediate coronary stenosis (50–69%, CAD-RADS 3). Quantitative parameters of lesion morphology, lumen geometry, vessel wall dimensions, and plaque composition were assessed using semi-automated CCTA adapted plaque analysis (QAngio CT). Patients were followed for a median of 72 months. MACE was defined as a composite outcome of all-cause mortality, target lesion revascularization, non-fatal MI, and stroke. Results: During follow-up, 26.6% of patients experienced MACE. High-risk plaque features were more frequent in patients with MACE. Lesions associated with MACE demonstrated significantly smaller lumen area, reduced mean lumen diameter, and decreased vessel wall area at the obstruction site. In addition, plaques leading to adverse events exhibited larger necrotic core areas. Although no single quantitative parameter independently predicted MACE, a combined multivariable model incorporating lumen geometry and plaque composition showed significant prognostic value. Conclusions: In patients with intermediate coronary stenosis, lesion-specific quantitative CCTA parameters—particularly luminal geometry and necrotic core extent—provide prognostic information beyond traditional plaque burden and stenosis assessment. Incorporating detailed plaque morphology into routine CCTA evaluation may improve long-term risk stratification and support more individualized clinical management.

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