CT Coronary Angiography at an Ultra-low Radiation Dose (<0.1 MSv): Feasible and Viable in Times of Constraint on Healthcare Costs

Overview

Journal Eur Radiol

Specialty Radiology

Date 2013 Jan 25

PMID 23344906

Citations 16

Authors

Filippo Cademartiri

Erica Maffei

Teresa Arcadi

Onofrio Catalano

Massimo Midiri

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) has reached very high standards both in terms of diagnostic performance and radiation dose reduction. This commentary follows a report on CTCA using less than 0.1 mSv in selected patients. This is an extraordinary accomplishment, both for technology and for medicine. The difficult task is now to implement this tool in clinical practice so it can play the best possible role. CTCA can improve diagnostic pathways, can save money for healthcare systems and could even improve pharmacological therapy. All of this may happen, but it will require the combined effort of all the experienced operators in this field, including the referring clinicians. In times of financial constraint, CTCA may also help to restrict ineffective medical expenses.

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