Evolving Role of Coronary CT Angiography in Coronary Angiography and Intervention: A State-of-the-Art Review.

Purpose of review: Despite growing evidence supporting the diagnostic utility of coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) for anatomical assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD), its is underutilized in peri-procedural planning especially in the acute setting.

Recent findings: Incorporation of flow reserve measurement techniques into CCTA has expanded its sensitivity and specificity for obstructive disease, and continued improvement in CCTA technology permits more accurate cross-sectional plaque characterization. CCTA has the potential to constitute the mainstay of pre-procedural planning for patients with CAD, who are being considered for percutaneous coronary intervention , reducing their ad hoc nature while facilitating equipment selection and improving catheterization lab safety and throughput. Future studies are needed to compare the cost and benefits of more frequent use of routine pre-procedural CCTA prior to coronary angiography and intervention.