To assess the in vivo diagnostic performance of ultrahigh-resolution photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) for evaluating coronary stents and to compare its image quality with that of energy-integrating detector computed tomography (EID-CT).
Approach:
Study Population: Included consecutive patients undergoing coronary CTA with PCCT and compared with controls who had EID-CT for similar clinical indications.
Imaging Techniques: PCCT used a dual-source scanner in ultrahigh-resolution mode, while EID-CT employed a 128-slice dual-source CT.
Image Analysis: Stent position documented under AHA-16 classification; subjective image quality graded using a 3-point Likert scale.
Key Findings:
PCCT provides higher spatial resolution and lower electronic noise compared to EID-CT.
In-stent lumen visibility is improved with PCCT, leading to fewer artifacts from stent struts.
Previous studies on PCCT's in vivo performance are limited, with few comparing it to invasive coronary angiography (ICA).
Interpretation:
PCCT may enhance the assessment of coronary stents, particularly in visualizing in-stent lumina and reducing diagnostic challenges associated with EID-CT.
Limitations:
The study is retrospective and may have selection bias.
Limited sample size and lack of diverse patient demographics may affect generalizability.
Conclusion:
PCCT shows promise for improved diagnostic efficacy in assessing coronary stents, warranting further investigation.
by Pietro G. Lacaita, Valentin Bilgeri, Philipp Spitaler, Benedikt Kindl, Wolfgang Dichtl, Ivan Lechner, Sebastian Reinstadler, Guy Friedrich, Gerlig Widmann, Gudrun M. Feuchtner
The proposed framework classified 30% of patients as high or extreme risk, compared with 12% classified as having severe or greater tricuspid regurgitation under established grading schemes.
Investigators examined Life’s Essential 8 scores and carotid ultrasonography measures across cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic stages in 1,283 young adults.
