Current status of coronary multislice CT angiography

Multislice computed tomography (MSCT) is an emerging technique which has an enormous potential to improve the current practice of coronary artery imaging. This article reviews the current status of coronary MSCT angiography (MSCTA) with emphasis on the imaging techniques and clinical utilities of 16-slice CTA. Results and experiences gained from coronary MSCTA in the past few years have taught us that accurate diagnosis of coronary artery disease relies on good technical studies and can be achieved by optimizing image parameters including image timing and image reconstruction ECG-trigger delay. Current clinical applications of coronary MSCTA include: quantitative assessment of coronary artery stenosis, characterization of coronary atherosclerotic plaques, and follow-up of coronary artery stent and bypass graft. Furthermore, MSCT has brought an increasing awareness to the amount of radiation used in CT. This has prompted CT researchers and manufacturers to improve various techniques and develop new strategies to reduce radiation dose. It is anticipated that MSCT will become a sensitive and accurate tool for detecting coronary artery disease and monitoring outcomes after treatment for coronary artery disease.