Technical challenges of coronary CT angiography: today and tomorrow

Rapid advancements in multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) are beginning to revolutionise cardiac imaging applications. As a consequence, coronary CT angiography (CTA) is fast emerging as a highly effective, noninvasive imaging technique for the assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD). Technology is improving at a robust pace, which brings with it the benefits of superior spatial and temporal resolution as well as fast volume coverage, achieved through the development of systems with an increased number of detectors and shorter gantry rotation time, as well as the advent of systems equipped with dual-source X-ray tubes. The main power of CTA was thought to lie in its high negative predictive value in excluding coronary disease with a high degree of accuracy in patients with low probability for CAD. However, this rapid progress has meant that we are also adding to the growing list of additional potential applications of CTA that are possible with the technology. The aim of this review is to present an overview of the technical capabilities of cardiac MDCT relating to coronary CTA and other applications, the limitations of current technologies, as well as discuss political perspectives and how to address these in medical practice.