Comparison of 64-slice computed tomography angiography and coronary angiography for the detection and assessment of coronary artery disease in patients with angina: A systematic review

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in Western countries. It presents itself in various ways, the commonest being angina. According to the Royal College of Radiologist referral guidelines, Coronary Angiography (CA) is currently the gold standard for diagnosis and evaluation of CAD. However, due to the invasive nature and expense of CA there is a perceived need for a primary non-invasive imaging modality to supersede it. Computed tomography angiography (CTA), utilising 64-slice technology, may be a less invasive alternative to CA. Aim: To consider the research evidence for the current gold standard diagnostic test for CAD. Specifically, which is more sensitive and specific for detecting CAD in patients with angina; 64-slice CTA or CA? Inclusion Criteria: Prospective, non-randomised control trials and diagnostic accuracy studies comparing 64-slice CTA and CA were included. Participants were adults with angina with suspected or known CAD. Method: An electronic search of the databases; AMED, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE and Science Direct, was conducted between January 2004 and April 2012. Secondary hand-searching of grey literature was undertaken. Two reviewers independently determined studies for inclusion, assessed quality, using SIGN50, and extracted data. Diagnostic value of 64-slice CTA and CA was compared and analysed at patient and segment level. Results: Ten studies were included in the critical review enrolling 1188 patients. At patient level sensitivity for 64-slice CTA ranged from 88% to 100%, specificity 64–92%, PPV 86–97% and NPV 76.9–100%. At segment level sensitivity for 64-slice CTA ranged from 73% to 100%, specificity 83–98%, PPV 47–90% and NPV 89–100% Conclusion: At both patient and segment level, 64-slice CTA is a highly sensitive and specific non-invasive alternative to CA for diagnosis of significant stenosis in patients with angina. For standalone diagnosis of CAD current research would support its adoption as the new gold standard. It is unlikely that CTA will replace CA for revascularisation patients as angiography and angioplasty are often performed concurrently