Patient Satisfaction: Coronary CT Angiography vs Invasive Coronary Angiography
Overview
This randomized single-center study compared patient satisfaction between coronary CT angiography (CTA) and invasive coronary angiography (ICA) in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Results indicate that patients generally favored CTA over ICA, reporting less pain and greater comfort during the procedure. These findings provide important patient-centered evidence supporting the use of noninvasive CTA in appropriate clinical settings.
Background
Coronary CT angiography (CTA) is increasingly used to rule out coronary artery disease (CAD), especially in patients with low-to-intermediate pretest probability. While CTA is noninvasive, the traditional reference standard remains invasive coronary angiography (ICA). Prior studies have suggested patient preference for CTA, but randomized data comparing patient satisfaction between these modalities have been lacking. This study addresses this gap by evaluating patient-reported outcomes in a randomized trial setting.
Data Highlights
Parameter
CTA Group
ICA Group
Maximum pain level (0-100 scale)
Lower (exact values not provided)
Higher (exact values not provided)
Patient comfort during exam
Higher satisfaction
Lower satisfaction
Willingness to repeat exam
Greater willingness
Less willingness
Key Findings
Patients randomized to coronary CT angiography reported significantly less pain during and after the procedure compared to those undergoing invasive coronary angiography.
Comfort and sense of control during the examination were rated higher by patients in the CT group.
Overall satisfaction with the diagnostic pathway was greater among patients receiving CT.
Patients expressed a higher willingness to undergo CT again if needed, compared to ICA.
Explanations and image review were provided by clinical staff, enhancing patient understanding in both groups.
Clinical Implications
These findings support the preferential use of coronary CT angiography in patients with suspected CAD when clinically appropriate, as it offers a more comfortable and less painful diagnostic experience. Incorporating patient satisfaction into decision-making may improve adherence to diagnostic pathways and overall patient care. Clinicians should consider patient perspectives alongside diagnostic accuracy when selecting imaging modalities.
Conclusion
In this randomized study, coronary CT angiography was associated with higher patient satisfaction and lower procedural pain compared to invasive coronary angiography. These results reinforce the role of noninvasive CT as a patient-friendly alternative for CAD evaluation.
References
CAD-Man Study Protocol/Charité Ethics Board/ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00844220 -- Coronary CT Angiography Versus Invasive Coronary Angiography
CORE-320 Study -- Patient Preference for Coronary CT Angiography
