Early experience of a CT coronary angiography service in a Scottish regional centre

CT coronary angiography (CTCA) is an emerging diagnostic tool in the assessment of patients with suspected coronary artery disease. It has several advantages over conventional coronary angiography (CCA); however, its use is not yet widespread in large teaching centres.

To determine what proportion of patients who have CTCA, do not require subsequent CCA.

A prospective analysis of all patients referred for CTCA from the start of the service in January 2008 to April 2010.

CTCA provided definitive diagnostic images in 85% of patients. Overall only 12% (n = 33) of patients had subsequent CCA. The proportion of patients who subsequently had CCA reduced with time reflecting increasing confidence with the clinical service.

A CTCA service can be successfully established out with a large teaching centre hospital. Close working between cardiologists and radiologists leads to increased confidence in the service and obviates the need for CCA in a large proportion of patients.