Which patients will benefit from a Coronary CTA?

Any patient (excluding the high risk CAD patient with an abnormal EKG and positive enzymes) presenting to the emergency department with chest pain in which the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism or thoracic aortic dissection is considered possible.

Will you be providing preliminary readings on the non-cardiac portion of the exam (e.g. lungs, mediastinum , osseous structures, etc.)?

To make our service efficient and to provide timely service we will limit our evaluation to the vital structures; (Coronary arteries, pulmonary arteries and thoracic aorta). We will not be providing interpretation of non-cardiac findings. The radiologist officially reading the exam will be responsible for any ancillary findings and the final interpretation.

Will Coronary CTA distinguish between cardiac and non-cardiac causes of acute chest pain?

Yes, it is an excellent study to evaluate for thrombus in the coronary arteries. In addition, we will be able to evaluate for pulmonary emboli and aortic dissection, which are non-cardiac but potentially life threatening causes of acute chest pain.

How will the information be transferred from our hospital to your reading centers?

Our information technology experts will interface with the computers at your facility allowing us to quickly transfer and process the raw CT data. When we are finished processing, you will have images of all the major coronary arteries and a preliminary reading of disease in any of these vessels.

Will our ER physicians be able to discuss cases with the radiologist interpreting the exam?

Yes, we will have radiologists working around the clock to provide the service as it is needed. This will enable us to provide preliminary readings within one hour of the transmission. The radiologist will fax most reports, but will be available for consultation when needed.

What types of diagnostic imaging examinations will you provide preliminary interpretations?

We are limiting our service to processing and preliminary interpretation of Coronary CTA and “triple rule-out” examinations.