CT Scanning for Detection of Coronary Artery Disease

There has been some recent publicity about the use of CT scanning for detection of coronary disease.

There has been controversy about the new technology because:

• Most of the previous research has been on electron beam CT rather than the new generation of ultrafast CT scanners.
• Some centres have used aggressive advertising campaigns to ensure through put because of the high capital cost of the equipment.
• The technique detects coronary calcification rather than lipid filled atherosclerotic plaques.
• There is no Medicare rebate for the technique.

As a result of this controversy the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand took a very conservative position in mid 1999 stating that in their view the technique should not be used except in research studies.

The Heart Foundation stated in May 2000 "the National Heart Foundation of Australia is of the opinion that at this time there is insufficient evidence to justify the use of this procedure in routine screening for coronary artery disease. The Heart Foundation recommends that those who are concerned about their risk of coronary artery disease should consult their general practitioner".