Evaluation of the Relationship Between the Characteristics and Dimensions of Calcified Plaques and Coronary Artery Stenosis in Patients Undergoing Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography

Abstract

Background: Despite the important role of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in determining the features of coronary atherosclerotic plaques, very few studies have investigated the role of plaque dimensions in the process of coronary artery obstruction. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the relationship between the characteristics and dimensions of calcified plaques and coronary artery stenosis using CCTA. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between calcified plaque dimensions and coronary artery stenosis in patients undergoing CCTA. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 211 plaques of candidate patients for prospective and retrospective electrocardiography (ECG)-gated CCTA, using spiral scanning at 120 kV. The length, width, thickness, and luminal areas of calcified plaques were assessed in all coronary arteries. Results: The mean rate of stenosis was estimated to be 56.1 ± 24.4%. The number of patients with stenosis < 50% was 100 (47.3%). Stenosis had a significant relationship with the plaque luminal area and the luminal dimeter of the normal coronary artery proximal and distal to the plaque (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant correlation between stenosis and normal luminal area (P > 0.05). Meanwhile, a significant relationship was found between stenosis and the width and length of plaques (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The present results indicated a significant association between stenosis and the width, length, and luminal area of plaques. It can be concluded that plaque dimensions are a predictive factor for stenosis.