Extension and Spatial Distribution of Atherosclerotic Burden Using Virtual Monochromatic Imaging Derived From Dual-energy Computed Tomography.

Abstract Introduction and objectives We explored the differences between atherosclerotic burden with invasive coronary angiography and virtual monochromatic imaging derived from dual-energy computed tomography coronary angiography. Methods Eighty consecutive patients referred for invasive coronary angiography underwent dual-energy computed tomography coronary angiography and were categorized according to the atherosclerotic burden extent using the modified Duke prognostic coronary artery disease index, coronary artery disease extension score, segment involvement score, and the segment stenosis score. Results The mean segment involvement score (8.2 ± 3.9 vs 6.0 ± 3.7; P P = .003), coronary artery disease extension score (4.84 ± 1.8 vs 4.43 ± 2.1; P = .005), and the median segment stenosis score (13.5 [9.0-18.0] vs 9.5 [5.0-15.0]; P P P Conclusions Dual-energy computed tomography coronary angiography identified a significantly larger atherosclerotic burden compared with invasive coronary angiography, particularly involving the proximal segments.