A review of serial coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) to assess plaque progression and therapeutic effect of anti-atherosclerotic drugs.

ABSTRACT

Change in coronary artery plaque on serial catheter intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is an established technique to monitor the therapeutic effect of drugs on coronary atherosclerosis. Recent advances in coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) now allow for non-invasive assessment of change in coronary plaque. Because coronary CTA is noninvasive, it enables clinical trials with lower-risk populations, higher retention rates, and lower costs. This review presents an overview of serial coronary CTA as a noninvasive imaging technique to gauge the therapeutic effect of anti-atherosclerotic therapies. Furthermore, it reviews the increasing use of serial CTA as an imaging endpoint in completed and ongoing clinical trials.