Comprehensive Computed Tomography Imaging of Vessel-specific and Lesion-specific Myocardial Ischemia

J Thorac Imaging. 2023 Jul 1;38(4):212-225. doi: 10.1097/RTI.0000000000000592. Epub 2021 May 24.

Abstract

Coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a fast and robust tool with high sensitivity and excellent negative predictive value for the evaluation of coronary artery disease, but is unable to estimate the hemodynamic significance of a lesion. Advances in computed tomography (CT)-based diagnostic techniques, for example, CT-derived fractional flow reserve and CT perfusion, have helped transform CCTA primarily from an anatomic assessment tool to a technique that is able to provide both anatomic and functional information for a stenosis. With the results of the ISCHEMIA trial published in 2019, these advanced techniques can elevate CCTA into the role of a better gatekeeper for decision-making and can help guide referral for invasive management. In this article, we review the principles, limitations, diagnostic performance, and clinical utility of these 2 functional CT-based techniques in the evaluation of vessel-specific and lesion-specific ischemia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Computed Tomography Angiography / methods
  • Coronary Angiography / methods
  • Coronary Artery Disease* / diagnostic imaging
  • Coronary Stenosis*
  • Fractional Flow Reserve, Myocardial*
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Ischemia* / diagnostic imaging
  • Myocardial Perfusion Imaging*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods