Validation of optimal coronary angiography angle for the branch form of the left main trunk by use of multi detector computed tomography

The aim of this study was to derive optimal coronary angiography (CAG) angle for the form information on the left main trunk (LMT) by use of multi detector computed tomography (MDCT). To verify the accuracy of angle measurement with MDCT, the angle of phantom with known angle was compared with MDCT (CT method) and angiography (AG method). The take-off angle of LMT was derived using CT method from 200 cases who underwent cardiac CT in this institution. In the phantom, both CT and AG methods were indicated to have high accuracy and the errors were very small (0.3%, 0.3%). The take-off mean angle of LMT was 130.7±19.0 degrees in male, and 139.1±19.3 degrees in female. The optimal CAG angle was indicated at left anterior oblique (LAO) 41 degrees (male) and LAO 49 degrees (female). The optimal CAG angle of LMT was derived from the CT method. (author)