Quadruple-Rule-Out Computed Tomography Angiography (QRO-CT): A Novel Dual-Energy Computed Tomography Technique for the Diagnostic Work-Up of Acute Chest Pain


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ÇETİN T., Kantarci M., İRGÜL B., AYDIN S., AYDIN F., Koseturk T., ...More

Diagnostics, vol.13, no.17, 2023 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 13 Issue: 17
  • Publication Date: 2023
  • Doi Number: 10.3390/diagnostics13172799
  • Journal Name: Diagnostics
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, EMBASE, INSPEC, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Keywords: DECT, emergency, myocarditis, perfusion deficit, triple rule out
  • Erzincan Binali Yildirim University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Background: Computerized tomography (CT) has been increasingly utilized in the differential diagnosis of acute chest pain. Combining the triple rule out CT angiography (TRO-CT) approach with dual-energy CT (DECT) can enhance the diagnostic capability by identifying myocardial perfusion deficiencies. This combination can yield a quadruple-rule-out computed tomography angiography (QRO-CT) technique. The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of the QRO-CT. Methods: Intraluminal diseases and abnormalities in the main coronary arteries and branches were investigated. The myocardial dark spots on the color-coded iodine map were identified as perfusion deficiencies. Pulmonary arteries and aorta were also evaluated. Results: The study population consisted of 211 patients. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of QRO-CT for pulmonary embolism were 93.5%, 100%, 100%, and 95.3%, respectively. For obstructive coronary artery disease, the values were 96.1%, 93.4%, 89.2%, and 97.7%, respectively. For myocarditis, the values were 69.2%, 100%, 100%, and 93.6%, respectively. Conclusions: the QRO-CT method may successfully evaluate myocardial perfusion deficits, hence expanding the differential diagnosis capabilities of the standard TRO-CT method for myocarditis. It can provide useful information on myocardial perfusion, which may influence the choice to perform invasive catheterization in cases of coronary artery obstruction.