Quantitative Coronary Angiography Measurements Research Articles

Photon-Counting Detector CT Virtual Monoenergetic Images for Coronary Artery Stenosis Quantification: Phantom and In Vivo Evaluation.

BACKGROUND. Calcium blooming causes stenosis overestimation on coronary CTA. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article was to evaluate the impact of virtual monoenergetic imaging (VMI) reconstruction level on coronary artery stenosis quantification using photon-counting detector (PCD) CT. METHODS. A phantom containing two custom-made vessels (representing 25% and 50% stenosis) underwent PCD CT acquisitions without and with simulated cardiac motion. A retrospective analysis was performed of 33 patients (seven women, 26 men; mean age, 71.3 ± 9.0 [SD] years; 64 coronary artery stenoses) who underwent coronary CTA by PCD CT followed by invasive coronary angiography (ICA). Scans were reconstructed at nine VMI energy levels (40-140 keV). Percentage diameter stenosis (PDS) was measured, and bias was determined from the ground-truth stenosis percentage in the phantom and ICA-derived quantitative coronary angiography measurements in patients. Extent of blooming artifact was measured in the phantom and in calcified and mixed plaques in patients. RESULTS. In the phantom, PDS decreased for 25% stenosis from 59.9% (40 keV) to 13.4% (140 keV) and for 50% stenosis from 81.6% (40 keV) to 42.3% (140 keV). PDS showed lowest bias for 25% stenosis at 90 keV (bias, 1.4%) and for 50% stenosis at 100 keV (bias, -0.4%). Blooming artifacts decreased for 25% stenosis from 61.5% (40 keV) to 35.4% (140 keV) and for 50% stenosis from 82.7% (40 keV) to 52.1% (140 keV). In patients, PDS for calcified plaque decreased from 70.8% (40 keV) to 57.3% (140 keV), for mixed plaque decreased from 69.8% (40 keV) to 56.3% (140 keV), and for noncalcified plaque was 46.6% at 40 keV and 54.6% at 140 keV. PDS showed lowest bias for calcified plaque at 100 keV (bias, 17.2%), for mixed plaque at 140 keV (bias, 5.0%), and for noncalcified plaque at 40 keV (bias, -0.5%). Blooming artifacts decreased for calcified plaque from 78.4% (40 keV) to 48.6% (140 keV) and for mixed plaque from 73.1% (40 keV) to 44.7% (140 keV). CONCLUSION. For calcified and mixed plaque, stenosis severity measurements and blooming artifacts decreased at increasing VMI reconstruction levels. CLINICAL IMPACT. PCD CT with VMI reconstruction helps overcome current limitations in stenosis quantification on coronary CTA.

Reliability of Fractional Flow Reserve in Non-Infarct-Related Arteries in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Undergoing a Pharmaco-Invasive Approach.

Objectives We investigated the reproducibility of fractional flow reserve (FFR) of significant stenoses (≥70% narrowing) in the non-infarct related artery (NIRA) during the pharmaco-invasive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) within 24 hours of thrombolysis and at a follow up of 2-3 weeks. Background STEMI with multivessel disease has worse outcomes. The benefits of FFR-directed PCI of NIRA at the time of primary PCI are yet controversial. Assessing the hemodynamic severity of the NIRA may help in deciding the management strategy of these lesions, save time, and avoid complications. Methods Thirty-one patients undergoing PCI for STEMI under a pharmaco-invasive approach were prospectively recruited. The FFR measurements in 34 stenoses (≥70% diameter stenosis) were obtained immediately after PCI of the culprit stenosis and were repeated at a mean follow-up of 17.6± 3.55 (14-21) days. In addition, time to thrombolysis, time from symptom onset to PCI, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), quantitative coronary angiographic measurements of the non-culprit stenoses, and thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow were recorded. Results There was a significant change in FFR values at follow-up as compared to baseline (0.78 ± 0.08 (0.68-0.93) to 0.77 ± 0.08 (0.67-0.93)) (p = 0.014). In four of the lesions, the FFR values differed by >0.05 at follow-up. The follow-up FFR values led to a change in the management strategy in 5 out of 31 patients (15%) of the lesions. The TIMI flow, percentage diameter stenosis, minimum lumen diameter, and LVEF did not change. There were no predictors of this change in FFR values. Conclusions During the acute phase of STEMI, the severity of non-culprit coronary artery stenoses can not be reliably assessed by FFR. The prolonged jeopardized state of myocardium in pharmaco-invasive PCI as compared to primary PCI seems to be responsible.

Short-term outcomes of drug-coated balloon versus drug-eluting stent for de novo saphenous vein graft lesions in coronary heart disease.

As a device for percutaneous coronary intervention, drug-coated balloon (DCB) is widely used to treat in-stent restenosis. However, data regarding the use of DCB in treating de novo saphenous vein graft (SVG) lesions are limited. This study aimed to explore the outcomes of using the DCB in the treatment of de novo SVG lesions of coronary heart disease (CHD). This retrospective and observational study analyzed CHD patients with de novo SVG lesions treated with DCB or the new-generation drug-eluting stent (DES) between January 2018 and December 2020. Restenosis was the primary endpoint, whereas target lesion revascularization (TLR), major adverse cardiac events, restenosis, cardiac death, target vessel revascularization, and myocardial infarction were the secondary outcomes. We enrolled 31 and 23 patients treated with DCB and DES, respectively. The baseline clinical data, lesion characteristics, and procedural characteristics were similar between the two groups. Twenty-eight (90.3%) patients in the DCB group and 21 (91.3%) in the DES group completed follow-up angiography after 1 year. The quantitative coronary angiography measurements at angiographic follow-up showing late lumen loss were -0.07 ± 0.95 mm for the DCB group and 0.86 ± 0.71 mm for the DES group (P = 0.039), and the rates of restenosis were 13.3% and 21.7% for the DCB and DES groups, respectively (P = 0.470). No significant differences were observed in the rates of MACE (16.7% vs. 26.1%, P = 0.402) and TLR (13.3% vs. 4.3%, P = 0.374) during clinical follow-up. Our findings suggest that when pre-dilatation was successful, DCB might be safe and effective in treating de novo SVG lesions.

The relationship among extent of lipid-rich plaque, factors associated with a reduction of lipid-rich plaque and late lumen loss: a near-infrared spectroscopy and intravascular ultrasound study

Abstract Background Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) are useful imaging modalities to identify lipid-rich plaque (LRP) which is associated with an increased risk of future cardiovascular events in individuals undergoing PCI. Pathological studies have raised concerns that treating LRP with stents may impair vascular healing. However, the impact of stent implantation to LRP lesions was less known. Moreover, little information is available about changes in the extent of LRP at before and after PCI. Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate changes in LRP by NIRS between pre- and post-stent implantation, and to evaluate an association among impact of LRP by NIRS at pre- and post-stenting and late lumen loss (LLL) by angiography. Methods We studied 175 lesions in 149 patients who underwent PCI under NIRS-IVUS guidance and follow-up angiography at 8-month later from 2017 to 2020. Plaque characteristics on IVUS, the extent of LRP [defined as a long segment with a 4-mm maximum lipid core burden index (maxLCBI4mm)] on NIRS, and quantitative coronary angiography measurements were analyzed. We evaluated a change of the extent of LRP between pre- and post-stenting at index PCI procedure, and association between the extent of LRP and a 8-month LLL at follow-up coronary angiography. A large LRP was defined as maxLCBI4mm>400 at pre-stenting. Results Mean age was 64.5 years old, and 123 (82%) patients were male. The prevalence of large LRP was 51% and median plaque burden at minimum lumen area was 81%. The extent of LRP at culprit lesion significantly decreased from pre- to post-stenting (median maxLCBI4mm [interquartile range (IQR)]: 407 [199, 580] to 133 [13, 319], p<0.001) (Figure 1). In multivariable liner regression analysis, independent predictors for the reduction of LRP were a pre-stenting LRP (β coefficient = −57.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) [−65.1 to −48.8], p<0.001) and plaque burden (β coefficient = −30.0, 95% CI [−56.6 to −3.4], p<0.001), respectively. On the other hands, patient comorbidities, lipid profile and inflammatory markers were not associated with the reduction of LRP (all p>0.05). Median LLL at follow-up angiogram was 0.17 [0.07–0.35] mm. Both the extent of pre- and post-stenting LRP were not associated with LLL (r=0.018, p=0.80 and r=0.022, p=0.76, respectively) (Figure 2). In addition, there was no significant difference in LLL between the post-stenting large and non-large LRP (median [IQR] 0.18 [0.08–0.35] vs. 0.17 [0.07–0.35]; P=0.95). Conclusions This study showed coronary stent implantation significantly reduced the NIRS-derived LRP in patients undergoing PCI. Although the extent of pre-stenting LRP and IVUS plaque burden predicted the reduction of LRP, the extent of pre- and post-stenting LRP were not associated with LLL. These findings suggest that stent implantation for LRP, even in a large LRP, is safe and does not affect LLL. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1. Scatter plotsFigure 2. CENTRAL Figure

Parametry morfologiczne tętnic obwodowych w ocenie ryzyka sercowo-naczyniowego

Introduction. The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that ultrasound measurements of common carotid artery (CCAd) and brachial artery (BAd) diameters represent markers of higher coronary artery disease risk (CAD, defined as ≥ 50% reduction in diameter of at least one large coronary artery segment). Materials and methods. Seventy-one patients (pts) evaluated for suspected stable CAD (23.9% women, age 61.5 ± 7.5) underwent ultrasound measurements of averaged diameters of both common carotid arteries and the brachial artery diameter of dominant arm. Clinical protocol included also: standard medical examination, assessment of biochemical parameters, resting electrocardiography, treadmill exercise test and transthoracic echocardiography. Diagnosis was established using quantitative coronary angiography measurements and calculation of Gensini Score (GS). Results. Angiographic CAD was present in 43 (60.5%) patients. Average CCAd was larger in CAD group (7.97 ± 0.96 mm vs. 7.37 ± 0.67 mm, p = 0.0052), similar to BAd (5.06 ± 0.65 vs. 4.68 ± 0.75, p = 0.03), respectively. The peripheral arterial diameters correlated with values of GS index, more pronounced for CCAd ( ρ = 0.35, p = 0.0023) than for BAd ( ρ = 0.24, p = 0.0368). CCAd significantly more positively correlated with the distal coronary artery segments values of the GS index ( ρ = 0.35, p = 0.0024), whereas the diameter of BA with the proximal segments values of GS index ( ρ = 0.239, p = 0.045). CCA and BD diameters indexed to body surface area (BSA) showed a strong trend toward larger average diameters in CAD patients: CCAd/BSA index: 4.06 ± 0.46 mm/m 2 vs. 3.85 ± 0.56 mm/m 2 , p = 0.087, BAd/BSA index: 2.57 ± 0.29 mm/m 2 vs. 2.42 ± 0.35 mm/m 2 , p = 0.057. Gensini score significantly correlated with CCAd/BSA index ( ρ = 0.24, p = 0.043) with a strong trend of positive correlation between GS index and BAd/BSA index ( ρ = 0.21, p = 0.076). Conclusions. The diameters of common carotid arteries and the brachial artery of dominant arm are greater in CAD pts. Peripheral arteries ultrasound may complement classic diagnostic pathway of stable coronary artery disease.

Short-term outcomes from drug-coated balloon for coronary de novo lesions in large vessels

BackgroundA drug-coated balloon (DCB) has been designed as a new device for the treatment of coronary artery disease. The data regarding DCB-treated lesions in large coronary artery are limited. The purpose of our study was to explore the effectiveness and safety of DCB in large coronary artery. MethodsWe prospectively analyzed all patients treated with DCB in de novo lesions consistent with inclusion criteria between May 2015 and April 2017. The observed outcomes included target lesion revascularization (TLR), myocardial infarction, cardiac death and non-cardiac death, and major adverse cardiac events (MACE). ResultsThere were 92 patients including 94 coronary de novo lesions treated in all. The most often utilized DCB diameters were 3.0 mm (41.5%) and 3.5 mm (39.4%). Two acute closures occurred in hospital. Six bailout drug-eluting stents were used in the percutaneous coronary interventions (6.4%). Quantitative coronary angiography measurement at follow-up showed late lumen loss was -0.02 ± 0.49 mm. The TLR rate and overall MACE rates were 4.3% and 4.3% during the follow-up period in the whole patient population, respectively. ConclusionsOur study showed that the “DCB only” strategy is safe and efficient in large vessel lesions of patients whose predilation achieved an acceptable result.

P5510Stress-induced myocardial ischemia in patients with myocardial bridging: correlations with fractional flow reserve and quantitative coronary angiography measurements during dobutamine infusion

P5510Stress-induced myocardial ischemia in patients with myocardial bridging: correlations with fractional flow reserve and quantitative coronary angiography measurements during dobutamine infusion

Quantitative Coronary Angiography for Assessment of Non-Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease: Comparison to Fractional Flow Reserve

Objective: To assess intermediate coronary artery lesions by 2D and 3D Quantitative Coronary Angiography (QCA) and compare the results with standard fractional flow reserve (FFR). Background: FFR is the standard for assessment of physiological significance of an intermediate coronary stenosis, but it expensive, sometimes it is unavailable, or limited use by contraindications to adenosine, QCA especially three-dimensional (3D-QCA) can be used as another method to help in assessment of the intermediate coronary lesions. Patients and methods: Thirty two vessels in 30 patients with intermediate coronary lesions were scheduled for FFR, 2D and 3D QCA measurement and the results of QCA were compared and correlated to the obtained from FFR. Results: The studied group included 32 vessels, 24 diabetic patients (75%). 18 hypertensive (56.3%). 20 smokers (62.5%). Mean FFR value was 0.80 ± 0.13. FFR? 0.80 was observed in 18 lesions (56.25%). Lesions severity obtained by 3D-QCA was better correlated to FFR than 2D-QCA. Both 3D area stenosis percent and 3D diameter stenosis percent have comparable correlation in term of accuracy but with better sensitivity for the percent diameter stenosis. 2D-QCA measurements were less correlated to FFR. Conclusion: 3D QCA is better than 2D QCA in assessment of intermediate coronary lesions and it is better correlated with FFR so it may be used in assessment of intermediate coronary lesions, when FFR is unavailable or contraindicated.

Is quantitative coronary angiography reliable in assessing the lumen gain after treatment with the everolimus-eluting bioresorbable polylactide scaffold?

The current study aimed to assess the difference in lumen dimension measurements between optical coherence tomography (OCT) and quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) in the polymeric bioresorbable scaffold and metallic stent. In the randomised ABSORB Japan trial, 87 lesions in the Absorb arm and 44 lesions in the XIENCE arm were analysed. Post-procedural OCT-QCA lumen dimensions were assessed in matched proximal/distal non-stented/non-scaffolded reference (n=199), scaffolded (n=145) and stented (n=75) cross-sections at the two device edges using the Bland-Altman method. In the non-stented/non-scaffolded reference segments, QCA systematically underestimated lumen diameter (LD) compared with OCT (accuracy, -0.26 mm; precision, 0.47 mm; 95% limits of agreement as a mean bias±1.96 standard deviation, -1.18-0.66 mm). When compared to OCT, QCA of the Absorb led to a more severe underestimation of the LD (-0.30 mm; 0.39 mm; -1.06-0.46 mm) than with the XIENCE (-0.14 mm; 0.31 mm; -0.75-0.46 mm). QCA underestimated LD by 9.1%, 4.9%, and 9.8% in the reference, stented, and scaffolded segments, respectively. The protrusion distance of struts was larger in the Absorb arm than in the XIENCE arm (135±27 µm vs. 18±26 µm, p<0.001), and may have contributed to the observed differences. In-device QCA measurement was differently affected by the presence of a metallic or polymeric scaffold, a fact that had a significant impact on the QCA assessment of acute gain and post-procedural minimum LD.

Rationale and design of the East-West late lumen loss study: Comparison of late lumen loss between Eastern and Western drug-eluting stent study cohorts

The contemporary evaluation of novel drug-eluting stents (DES) includes mechanistic observations that characterize postdeployment stent behavior. Quantification of late lumen loss due to neointimal hyperplasia 8-13 months after stent implantation, via quantitative coronary angiography (QCA), constitutes such an observation and is required by most regulatory authorities. Late lumen loss, as determined by QCA, has been validated as a surrogate for clinical endpoints such as target vessel revascularization. The mechanistic response to DES has not been directly compared across predominantly Asian or Western populations, whereas understanding their comparability across geographic populations could enhance global DES evaluation. The East-West late lumen loss study is designed to demonstrate whether the residual differences in late lumen loss, as assessed by QCA, is different between Eastern and Western DES recipients from studies with protocol angiography at 8-13 months of follow-up. Data from independent core laboratories that have characterized angiographic late lumen loss in DES clinical trials with protocol follow-up angiography will be compiled and dichotomized into Eastern and Western populations. A prospectively developed propensity score model incorporating clinical and anatomic variables affecting late lumen loss will be used to adjust comparisons of QCA measurements. Documentation of whether there are clinically meaningful differences in mechanistic response to DES implantation across genetically unique geographies could facilitate both the quality and efficiency of global device evaluation requiring invasive follow-up for novel stent designs.

Abstract 9908: Three-dimensional Optical Coherence Tomographic Analysis of Eccentric Morphology of the Jailed Side-branch Ostium in Coronary Bifurcation Lesions

Introduction: Using the 3D-OCT, morphologic changes in the jailed side- branch ostium were evaluated before and after a single stent crossover at coronary bifurcation lesions. Hypothesis: The severity of angiographic diameter stenosis of the jailed side-branch ostium is usually overestimated over the three-dimensional (3D) optical coherence tomography (OCT)-measured actual stenosis. Methods: In 109 patients who received a single stent crossover at coronary bifurcation lesions, the pre- and post-intervention minimal lumen area (MLA) and the eccentricity of the jailed side-branch ostium were measured with 3D-OCT. The eccentricity index was defined as the ratio of maximal diameter/minimal diameter of the jailed side-branch ostium. When the eccentricity index was &lt;1.5, the shape of the jailed side-branch ostium was defined as circular. The MLA of the jailed side-branch ostium was also calculated from the quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) minimal lumen diameter assuming a circular lumen. Results: The 3D-OCT-measured MLA of the jailed side-branch ostium decreased from 2.91±1.65 mm2 pre-intervention to 2.37±1.48 mm2 post-intervention (p&lt;0.01). The QCA- derived MLA also decreased from 2.35±1.71 mm2 pre-intervention to 1.68±1.56 mm2 post- intervention (p&lt;0.01). However, the 3D-OCT-measured MLA was significantly larger than the QCA-derived MLA (p&lt;0.01). The shape of the jailed side-branch ostium changed from circular to elliptical after the stent implantation (eccentricity index: 1.40±0.33 pre- intervention; 1.71±0.60 post-intervention, p&lt;0.01). Conclusions: Compared to QCA measurements, 3D-OCT analysis could be useful to guide decision for additional intervention or not after stent implantation across coronary bifurcation lesions.

Three-Dimensional Optical Coherence Tomographic Analysis of Eccentric Morphology of the Jailed Side-Branch Ostium in Coronary Bifurcation Lesions

BackgroundThe severity of angiographic diameter stenosis of the jailed side-branch ostium is usually overestimated over the 3-D optical coherence tomography (OCT)-measured actual stenosis. Using 3-D OCT, morphologic changes in the jailed side-branch ostium were evaluated before and after a single stent crossover at coronary bifurcation lesions. MethodsIn 109 patients who received a single stent crossover at coronary bifurcation lesions, the minimal lumen area (MLA) before and after intervention and the eccentricity of the jailed side-branch ostium were measured with 3-D OCT. The eccentricity index was defined as the ratio of maximal diameter/minimal diameter of the jailed side-branch ostium. When the eccentricity index was < 1.5, the shape of the jailed side-branch ostium was defined as circular. The MLA of the jailed side-branch ostium was also calculated from the quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) minimal lumen diameter assuming a circular lumen. ResultsThe 3-D OCT-measured MLA of the jailed side-branch ostium decreased from 2.91 ± 1.65 mm2 before intervention to 2.37 ± 1.48 mm2 after intervention (P < 0.01). The QCA-derived MLA also decreased from 2.35 ± 1.71 mm2 before intervention to 1.68 ± 1.56 mm2 after intervention (P < 0.01). However, the 3-D OCT-measured MLA was significantly larger than the QCA-derived MLA (P < 0.01). The shape of the jailed side-branch ostium changed from circular to elliptical after the stent implantation (eccentricity index: 1.40 ± 0.33 before intervention; 1.71 ± 0.60 after intervention; P < 0.01). ConclusionsCompared with QCA measurements, 3-D OCT analysis could be useful to guide decisions regarding additional intervention after stent implantation across coronary bifurcation lesions.

Eccentric morphology of jailed side-branch ostium after stent crossover in coronary bifurcation lesions: A three-dimensional optical coherence tomographic analysis

BackgroundAngiographic stenosis of a jailed side-branch ostium is usually observed after a single-stent crossover at coronary bifurcation lesions. However, the stenosis severity is typically overestimated due to the limited information obtained from two-dimensional morphology by angiography. We evaluated the actual stenosis of jailed side-branch ostium using three-dimensional (3D) optical coherence tomography (OCT). MethodsUsing 3D reconstructions of OCT data, we analyzed minimal lumen area (MLA) and eccentricity of the jailed side-branch ostium in 41 patients who were treated with single stent crossover at coronary bifurcation lesions and subsequently underwent serial OCT follow-up. ResultsThe MLA of jailed side-branch ostium calculated from quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) assuming a circular lumen markedly decreased after stent implantation (1.73±1.22mm2 pre-intervention to 0.84±0.91mm2 post-intervention, p<0.001). However, the MLA of jailed side-branch ostium measured at post-intervention by 3D-OCT (2.67±1.75mm2) was significantly larger than that measured by QCA (p<0.001). There were no statistically significant changes in MLA of jailed side-branch ostium based on 3D-OCT measurements during the follow-up (2.35±1.50mm2 at 3–6 months post-intervention; 2.44±1.27mm2 at 1–2 years post-intervention, p=0.098). The shapes of the jailed side-branch ostium were nearly elliptical (mean eccentricity index: 2.97±1.27 post-intervention; 2.79±1.17 at 3–6 months post-intervention; 2.59±1.02 at 1–2 years post-intervention). ConclusionsCompared to 3D-OCT measurements, QCA measurements overestimated the jailed side-branch ostial stenosis after single stent crossover due to eccentric morphology from orthogonal projection in coronary angiography. Significant changes in the MLA of jailed side-branch ostium by 3D-OCT were not observed during the follow-up.

Accuracy and precision of online quantitative coronary angiography with automatic calibration: a pilot study

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to evaluate the degree of accuracy, precision, correlation, and agreement between the measurements performed by online Quantitative Coronary Angiography (QCA) software with automatic calibration. MethodsPilot study that analyzed angiographic images of ten patients through online QCA software using Auto ISO (automatic calibration isocenter) and Auto TOD (Table-to-Object Distance) automatic calibration. Catheter size was measured by both methods and the reference diameter was computed. These measurements were compared with the measurement of catheter diameter regarding accuracy, precision, and agreement. ResultsThe actual average of the catheter diameter was 1.75 ± 0.32mm (range 1.33 to 2.67mm). The measurement of catheters by TOD QCA and ISO QCA resulted in mean diameters of 1.78 ± 0.37mm and 1.88 ± 0.38mm, respectively. The accuracy/precision of the TOD QCA and the ISO QCA was 0.03mm/0.21mm and 0.12mm/0.20mm, respectively. The TOD QCA and ISO QCA measures were among the limits of agreement in 96.3 and 94.7% of cases, respectively, and were significantly correlated (rs = 0.93, p < 0.01). However, despite the small difference between the methods (0.10 ± 0.10mm), the ISO QCA measures were significantly higher than those obtained by the TOD QCA (p < 0.01). ConclusionsOnline QCA with automatic calibration has good accuracy, precision, and correlation, which may represent a promising tool in the catheterization laboratory.

Acurácia e precisão da angiografia coronária quantitativa online com calibração automática: um estudo piloto

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to evaluate the degree of accuracy, precision, correlation, and agreement between the measurements performed by online Quantitative Coronary Angiography (QCA) software with automatic calibration. MethodsPilot study that analyzed angiographic images of ten patients through online QCA software using Auto ISO (automatic calibration isocenter) and Auto TOD (Table‐to‐Object Distance) automatic calibration. Catheter size was measured by both methods and the reference diameter was computed. These measurements were compared with the measurement of catheter diameter regarding accuracy, precision, and agreement. ResultsThe actual average of the catheter diameter was 1.75 ± 0.32mm (range 1.33 to 2.67mm). The measurement of catheters by TOD QCA and ISO QCA resulted in mean diameters of 1.78 ± 0.37mm and 1.88 ± 0.38mm, respectively. The accuracy/precision of the TOD QCA and the ISO QCA was 0.03mm/0.21 mm and 0.12mm/0.20mm, respectively. The TOD QCA and ISO QCA measures were among the limits of agreement in 96.3 and 94.7% of cases, respectively, and were significantly correlated (rs = 0.93, p < 0.01). However, despite the small difference between the methods (0.10 ± 0.10mm), the ISO QCA measures were significantly higher than those obtained by the TOD QCA (p < 0.01). ConclusionsOnline QCA with automatic calibration has good accuracy, precision, and correlation, which may represent a promising tool in the catheterization laboratory.

Abstract 17712: Comparison of Three-Dimensional and Two-Dimensional Quantitative Coronary Angiography and Intravascular Ultrasound for the Functional Assessment of Coronary Lesions

Introduction: Three-dimensional (3-D) quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) reportedly allows a more accurate depiction of true vessel geometry when compared with standard two-dimensional (2-D) QCA and has been validated by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). Although IVUS is currently thought to provide the most accurate measurements of vessel geometry and lesion severity, 3-D QCA measurements can be performed on existing standard coronary angiography images without the need for additional time or equipment during the procedure. Hypothesis: We assessed the hypothesis that 3-D QCA measurements and IVUS are comparable in accuracy in predicting physiologically significant stenosis assessed by fractional flow reserve (FFR). Methods: Forty lesions in 38 patients were assessed by FFR, IVUS, and 2-D and 3-D QCA. Correlations between anatomical data and FFR were analyzed. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) was calculated to identify the accuracy of predicting FFR ≤0.80. Results: Mean FFR value was 0.75 ± 0.13. FFR ≤0.80 was observed in 26 lesions (65%). Of all measurements of lesion severity obtained by IVUS, minimum lumen diameter (MLD) (r = 0.80, p &lt;0.001) and minimum lumen area (MLA) (r = 0.72, p &lt;0.001) were well correlated with FFR values. Of all 3-D QCA measurements, MLA correlated best with FFR values (r = 0.75, p &lt;0.001). Of all 2-D QCA measurements, MLD correlated best with FFR values (r = 0.58, p &lt;0.001). The AUC were 0.95 for MLA by IVUS, 0.93 for MLD by IVUS, 0.93 for MLA by 3-D QCA, and 0.78 for MLD by 2-D QCA (Figure). Conclusions: Anatomical parameters obtained by 3-D QCA and IVUS correlate better with FFR values than those obtained by 2-D QCA. The predictive value of 3-D QCA for reduced FFR is comparable to IVUS measurements.

Effects of the high-density lipoprotein mimetic agent CER-001 on coronary atherosclerosis in patients with acute coronary syndromes: a randomized trial.

AimHigh-density lipoproteins (HDLs) have several potentially protective vascular effects. Most clinical studies of therapies targeting HDL have failed to show benefits vs. placebo.ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of an HDL-mimetic agent on atherosclerosis by intravascular ultrasonography (IVUS) and quantitative coronary angiography (QCA).Design and settingA prospective, double-blinded, randomized trial was conducted at 51 centres in the USA, the Netherlands, Canada, and France. Intravascular ultrasonography and QCA were performed to assess coronary atherosclerosis at baseline and 3 (2–5) weeks after the last study infusion.PatientsFive hundred and seven patients were randomized; 417 and 461 had paired IVUS and QCA measurements, respectively.InterventionPatients were randomized to receive 6 weekly infusions of placebo, 3 mg/kg, 6 mg/kg, or 12 mg/kg CER-001.Main outcome measuresThe primary efficacy parameter was the nominal change in the total atheroma volume. Nominal changes in per cent atheroma volume on IVUS and coronary scores on QCA were also pre-specified endpoints.ResultsThe nominal change in the total atheroma volume (adjusted means) was −2.71, −3.13, −1.50, and −3.05 mm3 with placebo, CER-001 3 mg/kg, 6 mg/kg, and 12 mg/kg, respectively (primary analysis of 12 mg/kg vs. placebo: P = 0.81). There was also no difference among groups for the nominal change in per cent atheroma volume (0.02, −0.02, 0.01, and 0.19%; nominal P = 0.53 for 12 mg/kg vs. placebo). Change in the coronary artery score was −0.022, −0.036, −0.022, and −0.015 mm (nominal P = 0.25, 0.99, 0.55), and change in the cumulative coronary stenosis score was −0.51, 2.65, 0.71, and −0.77% (compared with placebo, nominal P = 0.85 for 12 mg/kg and nominal P = 0.01 for 3 mg/kg). The number of patients with major cardiovascular events was 10 (8.3%), 16 (13.3%), 17 (13.7%), and 12 (9.8%) in the four groups.ConclusionCER-001 infusions did not reduce coronary atherosclerosis on IVUS and QCA when compared with placebo. Whether CER-001 administered in other regimens or to other populations could favourably affect atherosclerosis must await further study.Name of the trial registry: Clinicaltrials.gov; Registry's URL: http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01201837?term=cer-001&rank=2; Trial registration number: NCT01201837.

Comparison of two and three dimensional quantitative coronary angiography to intravascular ultrasound in the assessment of left main coronary artery bifurcation lesions

Background Angiographic evaluation of left main coronary artery (LMCA) bifurcation lesions is often limited. two dimensional (2D) quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) with segmental analysis provides accuracy for quantification of the degree of stenosis in the main vessel and side branch ostium but can be affected by foreshortening and variable magnification. The accuracy of three dimensional (3D) QCA has recently developed to overcome 2D QCA limitations, however, accuracy and precision of 3D bifurcation QCA measurements in LMCA bifurcation lesions has not been established. Methods We investigated whether such 3D and 2D bifurcation QCA measurements differ in their accuracy in assessing significant LMCA bifurcation lesions defined by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) as a minimum luminal area (MLA) &lt;6 mm2 of LMCA and MLA &lt;4 mm2 of proximal left anterior descending (LAD) and/or proximal left circumflex (LCX) Results LMCA bifurcation lesions were assessed in 44 patients undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention. From 2D QCA measurements, MLA correlated moderately with threshold intravascular ultrasound MLA for LMCA (r=0.81, P &lt;0.000 1), LAD (r=0.54, P=0.000 1) and LCX (r=0.58, P &lt;0.000 1). Severity of lesion as MLA by derived 3D QCA, correlated moderately with threshold intravascular ultrasound MLA for LMCA (r=0.84, P &lt;0.000 1), LAD (r=0.53, P=0.000 2); LCX (r=0.66, P &lt;0.000 1). Overall, the C statistics tended to be slightly higher for 3D QCA and 2D QCA measurements in LMCA segment compared with proximal LAD and LCX segments, and there were no significant predictive power of percent diameter stenosis and percent area stenosis on 3D QCA for LCX IVUS MLA &lt;4 mm2 (percent diameter stenosis: area under curve 0.55, cutoff 23%, sensitivity 88%, specificity 37%, P=0.618 6; percent arer stenosis: area under curve 0.56, cutoff 41%, sensitivity 83%, specificity 38%, P=0.518 4, respectively). Conclusions The accuracy of 3D bifurcation QCA in detecting significant LMCA bifurcation lesions is limited, especially the proximal LCX ostium. When IVUS is not available or contraindicated, 3D QCA may assist in the evaluation of intermediate LMCA lesions with MLA.

Characteristics of function-anatomy mismatch in patients with coronary artery disease.

Background and ObjectivesCoronary lesions with mismatched functional and anatomical significance are not uncommon. We assessed the accuracy and predictors of mismatch between fractional flow reserve (FFR) and quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) analyses in patients with coronary lesions.Subjects and MethodsA total of 643 lesions with pre-interventional FFR and QCA measurements were consecutively enrolled and divided into four groups using FFR ≤0.80 and percent diameter stenosis (%DS) ≥50% as cutoffs for functional and anatomical significance, respectively. Accordingly, FFR >0.80 and DS ≥50%, and FFR ≤0.80 and DS <50% defined false-positive (FP) and false-negative (FN) lesions, respectively.ResultsOverall, 40.4% (260/643) of the lesions were mismatched, and 51.7% (218/414) and 18.3% (42/229) were FP and FN lesions, respectively. In a multivariate analysis, independent predictors of FP were non-left anterior descending artery location {odds ratio (OR), 0.36; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.28-0.56; p<0.001}, shorter lesion length (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.95-0.98; p<0.001), multi-vessel disease (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.30-0.75; p=0.001), and larger minimal lumen diameter by QCA (OR, 2.88; 95% CI,1.65-5.00; p<0.001). Independent predictors of FN were multi-vessel disease (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.24-5.27; p=0.048), aging (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.93-0.99; p=0.034), smoking (OR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.14-0.93; p=0.034), and smaller reference vessel diameter by QCA (OR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.10-0.87; p=0.026).ConclusionA mismatch between FFR and angiographic lesion severity is not rare in patients with coronary artery disease; therefore, an angiography-guided evaluation could under- or over-estimate lesion severity in specific lesion subsets.

Glycation of Apoprotein A-I Is Associated With Coronary Artery Plaque Progression in Type 2 Diabetic Patients

OBJECTIVETo investigate whether glycation level of apoprotein (apo)A-I is associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) and plaque progression in patients with type 2 diabetes.RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODSAmong 375 consecutive type 2 diabetic patients undergoing quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), 82 patients with nonsignificant stenosis (luminal diameter narrowing <30% [group I]) and 190 patients with significant CAD (luminal diameter stenosis ≥70% [group II]) were included for analysis of apoA-I glycation level and serum activity of lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT). The control group had 136 healthy subjects. At the 1-year follow-up, angiography and IVUS were repeated mainly in group II patients for plaque progression assessment.RESULTSRelative intensity of apoA-I glycation by densitometry was increased, and serum LCAT activity was decreased stepwise across groups control, I, and II. These two measurements were associated with the number of diseased coronary arteries and extent index in group II. During 1-year follow-up, QCA detected 45 patients with plaque progression in 159 subjects, and IVUS found 38 patients with plaque progression in 127 subjects. Baseline relative intensity of apoA-I glycation was significantly increased in patients with plaque progression compared with those without, with values associated with changes in QCA and IVUS measurements. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that baseline relative intensity of apoA-I glycation was an independent determinant of CAD and plaque progression in type 2 diabetic patients.CONCLUSIONSApoA-I glycation level is associated with the severity of CAD and coronary artery plaque progression in type 2 diabetic patients.