Improved diagnostic accuracy with 16-row multi-slice computed tomography coronary angiography

Objectives We sought to compare the diagnostic value of multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) coronary angiography (CA) to detect significant stenoses (≥50% lumen diameter reduction) with that of invasive CA. Background The latest 16-row MSCT scanner has a faster rotation time (375 ms) and permits scanning with a higher X-ray tube current (500 to 600 mA) during MSCT CA when compared with previous scanners. Methods We studied 51 patients (37 men, mean age 58.9 ± 10.0 years) with stable angina or atypical chest pain. Patients with pre-scan heart rates ≥70 beats/min received oral beta-blockade. The heart was scanned after intravenous injection of 100 ml contrast (iodine content, 400 mg/ml). Mean scan time was 18.9 ± 1.0 s. The MSCT scans were analyzed by two observers unaware of the results of invasive angiography, and all available coronary branches ≥2 mm were included. Results Invasive CA demonstrated normal arteries in 16% (8 of 51), non-significant disease in 21% (11 of 51), single-vessel disease in 37% (19 of 51), and multi-vessel disease in 26% (13 of 51) of patients. There were 64 significant lesions. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for detection of significant lesions on a segment-based analysis were 95% (61 of 64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 86 to 99), 98% (537 of 546, 95% CI 96 to 99), 87% (61 of 70, 95% CI 76 to 98), and 99% (537 of 540, 95% CI 98 to 99), respectively. All patients with angiographically normal coronary arteries or significant lesions were correctly identified. Three of 11 patients with <50% lesions were incorrectly classified as having single-vessel disease. Conclusions The 16-row MSCT CA reliably detects significant coronary stenoses in patients with atypical chest pain or stable angina pectoris.