[Cardiac computed tomography: indications and perspectives]

Presse Med. 2008 Apr;37(4 Pt 2):724-31. doi: 10.1016/j.lpm.2007.07.039. Epub 2008 Feb 29.
[Article in French]

Abstract

The increased number of detectors on CT systems has improved spatial resolution, which is becoming close to that of coronary angiography. Simultaneously, manufacturers are working hard at improving temporal resolution, so that uninterpretable cardiac CT examinations will progressively disappear. Cardiac CT scanners are used primarily to rule out coronary disease in patients with a low cardiovascular risk but must also be able to perform thoracic and cardiac computed tomography. Assessment of bypass graft patency, analysis of ventricular function, myocardial diseases (ischemic or not), valvular disease, diagnosis of chest pain in the emergency department--all can be studied perfectly with this technique. In the near future analysis of the composition of coronary plaque and its monitoring during statin treatment will also become possible.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chest Pain / etiology
  • Coronary Artery Disease / diagnosis*
  • Coronary Stenosis / diagnosis*
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Revascularization
  • Positron-Emission Tomography
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*