Evaluating plaque progression in coronary artery disease using advanced imaging techniques

Evaluation of Atherosclerotic Plaque Progression by Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography and Intracoronary Imaging Techniques in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease

Observational Ruijin Hospital · NCT06794684

This study is testing how advanced imaging can help us understand the growth of plaque in the arteries of people with coronary artery disease over five years and how different factors and treatments affect their heart health.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorRuijin Hospital Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Shanghai and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06794684 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational cohort study involves patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) who will be followed for up to 5 years. Participants will undergo repeat coronary CT angiography (CTA) after 2 years, and those referred for invasive coronary angiography will receive additional intracoronary imaging techniques. The study aims to analyze the morphological and functional characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques, their progression, and the impact of various cardiometabolic factors and treatments on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Blood samples will also be collected for further analysis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with clinically significant angina or suspected CAD who have visible plaque on coronary CTA.

Not a fit: Patients with severe renal impairment, recent coronary interventions, or significant comorbidities such as malignancies or advanced heart failure may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of coronary artery disease, potentially reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies utilizing advanced imaging techniques for plaque analysis have shown promise, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights into CAD management.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age ≥ 18 years
* Clinically significant angina pectoris, or suspected CAD
* Receive coronary CTA scan, with a visible plaque (defined as ≥25% diameter stenosis) in major coronary arteries.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unsuitable for coronary CTA (such as severe renal impairment, uncontrolled thyroid condition, allergic to iodine, etc.)
* Receive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) within 6 months
* Prior history of myocardial infarction or heart failure
* Prior history of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)
* Abnormal liver function (serum alanine aminotransferase \[ALT\] level exceeding 3 times the upper limit of normal) or abnormal kidney function (eGFR ≤30 ml/min)
* Familial hypercholesterolemia
* Estimated survival ≤ 1 year
* Malignant tumor
* Pregnant or lactation, or have the intention to give birth within one year
* Poor coordinance, unable to follow-up

Where this trial is running

Shanghai and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Coronary Arterial DiseaseCoronary ArteriosclerosisCoronary CTAPlaque Progressioncoronary artery diseasehigh-risk plaquesplaque compositionintracoronary imaging
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.