Multimodality imaging for the prevention of cardiovascular events: Coronary artery calcium and beyond

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains the leading global cause of mortality.
• Effective prevention strategies are essential to reduce ASCVD-related deaths.
• Advances in cardiovascular imaging enhance diagnosis and risk assessment for ASCVD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on multimodality cardiovascular imaging for ASCVD prevention.
• To highlight the role of advanced imaging beyond current standard modalities.
• To inform clinical practice regarding comprehensive ASCVD risk stratification.

Main Methods:

• Review of current scientific literature and clinical evidence.
• Analysis of data from various cardiovascular imaging modalities.
• Focus on diagnostic and risk stratification capabilities relevant to prevention.

Main Results:

• Cardiovascular imaging is pivotal in ASCVD diagnosis and risk stratification.
• Emerging modalities offer enhanced insights into coronary atherosclerosis.
• Current clinical practice often relies on limited imaging techniques.

Conclusions:

• Multimodality cardiovascular imaging plays a critical role in ASCVD prevention.
• Evidence supports expanding the use of advanced imaging techniques.
• Further integration of comprehensive imaging is needed for optimal ASCVD risk management.