Introduction: The newest generation of 16-detector-row CT allows displaying the anatomy and assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD) when slow regular sinus rhythm is present.
Methods: For morphological assessment of cardiac structures by using Multi-detector row CT a dedicated scan protocol is obligatory. The indication for coronary CT angiography (CTA) is currently under investigation by several study groups.
Results: Because of the limited spatial and temporal resolution and coronary calcium artefacts, it is not possible with multislice CT angiography to assess coronary arteries in patients with established coronary artery disease. The anatomy of the coronary arteries can well be displayed with this technique.
Conclusion: The high negative predictive value of coronary CTA may justify the investigation of symptomatic patients with intermediate pretest probability of CAD. Moreover coronary CTA is suitable for patients for displaying the origin and course of abnormal coronary arteries.