Angiographic profile and common risk features of coronary artery disease among patients who underwent Conventional Coronary Angiography at a tertiary care center hospital in Nepal

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nepal. Coronary angiography (CAG) is an essential diagnostic and therapeutic modality in CAD. This study aimed to evaluate the angiographic profile, clinical presentations, and risk factors among patients undergoing diagnostic CAG at a tertiary care center in Nepal. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at KIST Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, from January 2022 to July 2024. A total of 196 patients aged 18 years and above who underwent diagnostic CAG for suspected or confirmed CAD were included. Data were extracted from Cath Lab registries and hospital records. Stenosis was categorized as non-critical (<50%), intermittent (50–69%), and significant (≥70%). Patterns of vessel involvement were classified as single-vessel disease (SVD), double-vessel disease (DVD), or triple-vessel disease (TVD). SPSS 17 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Among 196 patients analyzed, 115 (58.7%) had abnormal angiographic findings. Significant CAD (≥70% stenosis) was seen in 100 patients. SVD was the most common pattern (41%), followed by DVD (31%) and TVD (28%). LAD was the most frequently involved artery (60%). Hypertension (58.7%) and diabetes (35.7%) were the predominant risk factors. PCI was performed in 31.8% of patients, while 55.7% were managed medically. Discussion: This study highlights the rising burden of significant CAD, with a predominant involvement of the LAD. Limited access to advanced cardiovascular interventions and financial constraints continue to hinder optimal care, emphasizing the need for health system strengthening and early detection strategies in Nepal.