Multi–Detector Row CT Coronary Angiography: Influence of Reconstruction Technique and Heart Rate on Image Quality

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Abstract
Purpose: To prospectively evaluate to what extent image quality in 16–detector row computed tomographic (CT) coronary angiography is a function of the heart rate and the image reconstruction technique used. Materials and Methods: A total of 70 patients (49 men, 21 women; mean age, 59.1 years ± 5.8 [standard deviation]) consecutively underwent multi–detector row CT coronary angiography; 49 patients additionally underwent coronary angiography. Image reconstruction was based on both relative and absolute timing. A total of 20 equidistant relative and absolute image reconstructed intervals were assessed by applying a four-step grading scale. Cluster and discrimination analysis, Spearman correlation analysis, and Wilcoxon and χ2 tests were used for statistical analysis. Institutional review board approval and written informed consent were obtained. Results: Though significantly (P < .001) better image quality was observed for image reconstruction based on absolute timing and in patients with lower heart rates,...