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Abstract

Background

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.

Aims

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

Methods

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

Results

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.

Conclusions

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.

Keywords

Catheter coronary angiography CT coronary angiography

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