State-of-the-art imaging with 64-channel multidetector CT angiography

During the past decade, computed tomography angiography (CTA) has become a standard noninvasive imaging method for the depiction of vascular anatomy and pathology. The quality and speed of CTA examinations have increased dramatically as CT technology has evolved from single-channel spiral CT systems (circa 1990) to multichannel (4-, 8-, 10-, and 16-slice) spiral CT systems (circa 1998 through 2001). In 2004, 64-slice multichannel CT technology became available in the United States, with the first installation occurring at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine. We describe our initial experience using this state-of-the art technology, focusing on examinations that illustrate the increased diagnostic resolution of vascular anatomy and pathology, and the effectiveness of 2-and 3-dimensional postprocessing using a 64-channel CT system. Future applications of 64-channel technology for preoperative and postoperative vascular surgery and endovascular techniques are also described.