Clinical Implementation of Dual-Source Computed Tomography for Diagnostic Cardiovascular Angiography: Initial Experience

Abstract

Coronary angiography (CAG) has been the standard method for detection and follow-up of coronary artery disease for years. However, it has a slight but discrete complication rate. With the introduction of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), the coronary system could be evaluated non-invasively. The limited temporal and spatial resolution of the first MDCT scanners made the examination quality of scanning of patients with high, increasing or irregular heart rates or patients with stents, clips or severely calcified arteries less predictable. The introduction of dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) might constitute a promising new concept for cardiac CT. In this study, we present our first experience with DSCT. We investigated seven patients for different indications with DSCT. Image quality was reliable in all patients despite the presence of high heart rates (up to 105 beats per minute), heavy calcifications and surgical clips. DSCT showed stenoses which were not detected on CAG. Regarding the fact that DSCT not only offers morphological information of the coronary vessel wall and lumen but also delivers all standard functional cardiac parameters, it has true potential as a routine diagnostic tool in the cardiac diagnostic workup. In conclusion, first results of DSCT show high-quality, consistent cardiac and coronary imaging independent of heart rate and patient condition. These features enable a breakthrough in non-invasive cardiac and coronary imaging.