Recently, an ultra-high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scanner with a 0.25-mm detector and a 1024×1024 matrix has been introduced in the clinical setting. The higher spatial resolution of this CT scanner may have advantages for the diagnosis of smaller structures such as arteries with a small caliber. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the usefulness of ultra-high-resolution CT for visualizing the coronary artery, the spinal artery and the peripheral artery. The results of our initial feasibility study show that ultra-high-resolution CT using a 0.25-mm slice thickness improves visualization of coronary artery stenosis, and also the vascular continuity between the aorta and the anterior spinal artery via the artery of Adamkiewicz (the great anterior radiculomedullary artery). At present, we are investigating the performance of ultra-high-resolution CT in the diagnosis of arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) using the subtraction technique. We conclude that ultra-high-resolution CT is a promising new modality for next generation CT.

View full abstract

[in Japanese]

View full abstract

[in Japanese]

View full abstract

[in Japanese]

View full abstract