Coronary computed tomography angiography in a single cardiac cycle with a mean radiation dose of approximately 1 mSv: initial experience.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the radiation dose, image quality and acquisition time of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) using a 128-slice dual source scanner with prospective ECG-triggered high-pitch spiral acquisition (Flash Spiral). Methods: A series of 20 consecutive patients in sinus rhythm, with no contraindications to administration of iodinated contrast media and befa-blockers and no history of coronary revascularization, underwent CCTA either to rule out coronary artery disease (CAD) or to evaluate known or suspected CAD. Image quality was evaluated using a four-point scale (1 excellent, 4 poor). Data on acquisition time and radiation dose were recorded. Results: Mean acquisition time was 292±21 milliseconds. The mean effective radiation dose was 0.99 mSv±0.34 mSv. All of the 266 coronary artery segments analyzed were of diagnostic image quality. Conclusion: CCTA using a 128-slice dual source scanner with prospective ECG-triggered high-pitch spiral acquisition provides single cardiac cycle acquisition with high image quality at mean effective radiation doses of approximately 1 mSv.