Detection of coronary artery anomalies by dual-source CT coronary angiography

Aim

To retrospectively evaluate the clinical value of dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) coronary angiography in the diagnosis of coronary artery anomalies.

Materials and methods

A large cohort of 3625 consecutive patients, who underwent DSCT coronary angiography in our institute, was reviewed for coronary artery anomalies. All images were evaluated by two experienced readers using axial source images, multi-planar reformations (MPR), maximum intensity projections (MIP) and volume rendering (VR). Coronary artery anomalies were found in 36 patients (male 20, female 16, mean age 48 years, range 15–76 years). Of the 36 patients, 19 patients also underwent conventional coronary angiography (CCA).

Results

The incidence of coronary artery anomalies was 0.99% (36/3625). Six different types of coronary artery anomalies were diagnosed by DSCT coronary angiography: (1) 11 anomalies of the right coronary artery; (2) five anomalies of the left coronary artery; (3) 10 anomalies of the left circumflex artery; (4) two single coronary artery; (5) one anomalous pulmonary origin of the coronary artery; (6) seven coronary artery fistula. Evaluation of the CCA resulted in a precise diagnosis in 53% (10/19) patients.

Conclusion

DSCT coronary angiography is a good diagnostic tool to examine coronary artery anomalies.