CAR and CSTR Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT) Practice Guidelines: Part 1 Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA)

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Imaging
• Radiology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Cardiac motion significantly challenges Computed Tomography (CT) imaging, particularly for visualizing coronary arteries.
• Electrocardiographic gating is a key technique for achieving motion-free cardiac CT.
• Technological advancements in CT hardware and software necessitate updated practice guidelines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated overview of current evidence for cardiac CT in various clinical scenarios.
• To outline standards for patient safety and quality of care in cardiac CT programs.
• To guide the establishment of cardiac CT programs in Canada.

Main Methods:

• Review of current evidence supporting cardiac CT applications.
• Development of updated practice standards for cardiac CT.
• Focus on technological advancements in CT hardware and software.

Main Results:

• Identification of key technological advances in cardiac CT acquisition and processing.
• Establishment of updated recommendations for optimal use of electrocardiographic gating.
• Consolidation of best practices for patient safety and quality assurance.

Conclusions:

• Updated guidelines are essential to reflect advancements in cardiac CT technology.
• Standardized practice ensures safe and high-quality cardiac CT imaging.
• These guidelines support the effective implementation of cardiac CT programs in Canada.