Journal of cardiovascular computed tomography
-
J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr · May 2017
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyImproved image quality with simultaneously reduced radiation exposure: Knowledge-based iterative model reconstruction algorithms for coronary CT angiography in a clinical setting.
The aim of this study was to assess the potential for radiation dose reduction using knowledge-based iterative model reconstruction (K-IMR) algorithms in combination with ultra-low dose body mass index (BMI)-adapted protocols in coronary CT angiography (coronary CTA). ⋯ The combination of K-IMR with BMI-adapted ULD protocols results in significant radiation dose savings while simultaneously improving image quality compared to LD protocols with FBP or hybrid iterative algorithms. Therefore, K-IMR allows for coronary CTA examinations with high diagnostic value and very low radiation exposure in clinical routine.
-
J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr · Nov 2015
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyComputed tomography-based high-risk coronary plaque score to predict acute coronary syndrome among patients with acute chest pain - Results from the ROMICAT II trial.
Coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) can be used to detect and quantitatively assess high-risk plaque features. ⋯ The ROMICAT score derived from semi-automated quantitative measurements of high-risk plaque features was an independent predictor of ACS during the index hospitalization and was incremental to gender and presence of ≥ 50% stenosis.
-
J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr · Jul 2015
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyImage quality and radiation dose of a prospectively electrocardiography-triggered high-pitch data acquisition strategy for coronary CT angiography: The multicenter, randomized PROTECTION IV study.
Concerns have been raised about radiation dose of coronary CT angiography. Although high-pitch acquisition technique yields high potential for radiation dose savings, it is more vulnerable to artifacts, which impair diagnostic image quality. ⋯ In patients with a low and stable heart rate diagnostic image quality can be maintained with a high-pitch helical scan first strategy while 58% of radiation dose can be saved.
-
J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr · Mar 2015
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyEsmolol is noninferior to metoprolol in achieving a target heart rate of 65 beats/min in patients referred to coronary CT angiography: a randomized controlled clinical trial.
Coronary CT angiography (CTA) is an established tool to rule out coronary artery disease. Performance of coronary CTA is highly dependent on patients' heart rates (HRs). Despite widespread use of β-blockers for coronary CTA, few studies have compared various agents used to achieve adequate HR control. ⋯ Intravenous esmolol with a stepwise bolus administration protocol is at least as efficacious as the standard of care intravenous metoprolol for HR control in patients who undergo coronary CTA.
-
J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr · Jan 2015
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyQuantification of coronary artery calcium in nongated CT to predict cardiovascular events in male lung cancer screening participants: results of the NELSON study.
To evaluate the incremental prognostic value of the number and maximum volume of coronary artery calcifications over modified Agatston score strata, age, pack-years, and smoking status for predicting cardiovascular events. ⋯ Cardiovascular event rate increased with higher numbers of calcified lesions. The number but not maximum volume of calcifications has independent, although minimal, prognostic value over age, pack-years, smoking status, and modified Agatston score strata in our population.