The role of 16-slice computed tomography angiography in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease: large sample analysis.

BACKGROUND Computed tomography angiography enables non-invasive evaluation of the coronary arteries. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the accuracy of 16-slice multi-detector CT angiography in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease, and assess coronary bypass grafts and coronary anomalies. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of 223 patients who were examined at our medical center over a period of 2 years with a 16-slice CT angiography scanner and retrospective electrocardiographic gating. RESULTS There were no significant complications, and good visualization of the coronary arteries was achieved in all but eight patients. A high correlation with the results of the invasive angiography was noted (sensitivity 85%, specificity 93%, negative predictive value 98%). Altogether, 131 bypass conduits were examined with excellent graft visualization, Several coronary anomalies were detected, as were significant extra-cardiac findings. CONCLUSIONS Multi-slice CT angiography is a reliable noninvasive diagnostic procedure for demonstration of the coronary arteries and bypass grafts. In the future it will probably replace part of the diagnostic invasive coronary angiography and, as a result, a large proportion of coronary angiography procedures will be therapeutic.