title: Multislice spiral computed tomography of the heart: technique, current applications, and perspective.
abstract: Multislice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) is a rapidly evolving, noninvasive technique for cardiac imaging. Knowledge of the principle of electrocardiogram-gated MSCT and its limitations in clinical routine are needed to optimize image quality. Therefore, the basic technical principle including essentials of image postprocessing is described. Cardiac MSCT imaging was initially focused on coronary calcium scoring, MSCT coronary angiography, and analysis of left ventricular function. Recent studies also evaluated the ability of cardiac MSCT to visualize myocardial infarction and assess valvular morphology. In combination with experimental approaches toward the assessment of aortic valve function and myocardial viability, cardiac MSCT holds the potential for a comprehensive examination of the heart using one single examination technique.
authors.affiliation: Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Aachen University of Technology, Pauwelsstrasse 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany. mahnken@rad.rad.rwth-aachen.de
authors.forename: Andreas H
authors.initials: AH
authors.lastname: Mahnken
authors.forename: Joachim E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Wildberger
authors.forename: Ralf
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Koos
authors.forename: Rolf W
authors.initials: RW
authors.lastname: Günther
mesh_terms: D002114:Calcinosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D017023:Coronary Angiography / Q000379:methods; D004562:Electrocardiography; D006334:Heart Function Tests; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D036542:Tomography, Spiral Computed; D018487:Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging