Review of the Latest Research Directions and Clinical Application Advances in Cardiac CT
Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine Research DOI: 10.32629/jcmr.v7i1.5070
Abstract
Objective: To systematically review the latest research findings on cardiac computed tomography (CT) in terms of hardware innovation, intelligent technology integration, and expanded clinical applications. This review emphasizes its value in precision diagnosis and treatment for conditions such as atrial fibrillation and aortic valve stenosis, providing reference for the advancement of precision medicine in cardiovascular diseases. Methods: We retrieved data from core domestic and international journals, multicenter clinical trials, and authoritative guidelines (ESC, ACC/AHA, Chinese Medical Association Radiology Branch) published between 2021 and 2025. Analyses focused on technological breakthroughs in cardiac CT and disease-specific assessments through AI integration. Results: Dual-slice dual-source CT and photon-counting detector CT (PCD-CT) achieved the integration of low dose and high resolution, while AI technology revolutionized the entire image reconstruction workflow. CT demonstrates critical value in pre-ablation assessment for atrial fibrillation and throughout transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for aortic stenosis. Left atrial appendage volume >9.25 ml serves as an independent predictor of post-ablation recurrence (HR=1.160, 95% CI: 1.095–1.229, P<0.001).An independent predictor of post-ablation recurrence (HR=1.160, 95% CI: 1.095–1.229, P<0.001). Pre-TAVR CT assessment achieves over 95% accuracy in valve selection. Recommendations for CCT differ between the 2024 ESC and ACC/AHA guidelines, with ACC/AHA's Class COR-IIa recommendation rate (51.9%) significantly higher than ESC's (35%) (P=0.04). Conclusion: Cardiac CT has evolved into an integrated diagnostic and therapeutic platform characterized by "intelligence, precision, and comprehensive care." Future efforts should focus on advancing technical standardization and improving accessibility at the primary care level to enhance its role in early disease screening and personalized treatment.
Keywords
cardiac CT; photon-counting detector; artificial intelligence; atrial fibrillation; aortic valve stenosis; transcatheter aortic valve replacement; low-dose imaging; clinical guidelines
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