Bridging Diagnosis and Prevention: The Impact of CCTA on CAD Risk Management - A Retrospective Single-Center Study

Objective: To assess the clinical utility of coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) for diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with stable chest pain at Zayed Military Hospital, focusing on its impact on management and preventive strategies. Background: Chest pain is a common presenting symptom in hospitals. Coronary computed tomographic angiography offers an accurate, non-invasive method for diagnosing CAD in patients with low to intermediate pre-test probability. Methods: A retrospective review of all 417 patients who underwent CCTA from January to December 2024 was conducted. Demographics, calcium scores, CAD findings, comorbidities, and subsequent management, including invasive coronary angiography and pharmacological interventions, were analyzed. Results: Among the 417 patients (mean age 43.8 years; 90.8% male), 77% had normal coronary arteries, and 23% showed varying degrees of CAD. Of those with moderate to severe CAD (n = 40), 33 underwent invasive angiography, with 63% requiring percutaneous intervention. A zero-calcium score was found in 66%, with only 0.7% showing severe CAD. Hypertension and diabetes were linked to higher CAD severity. Statins were prescribed to 85% of those with mild CAD and universally to those with more advanced disease. Conclusion: CCTA is a valuable first-line diagnostic tool for stable chest pain, offering high negative predictive value and facilitating targeted preventive strategies for CAD.