The non-invasive detection of coronary artery disease is a prime goal for future developments in clinical cardiology. In addition to the documentation of significant stenoses, the detection of vulnerable plaques is of major importance for risk stratification and early treatment, in order to prevent plaque ruptures.1 Recently, a new generation of fast spiral computed tomography scanners has been introduced using a multi-slice technique (MSCT). This new technology allows for an almost motion free visualisation of the coronary arteries.2 ,3 We report on non-invasive differentiation of coronary plaque morphology by MSCT in patients with lesions in the proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD). The results were compared with the findings of intracoronary ultrasound (ICUS).

The study protocol was approved by the local ethical committee and the patients gave informed consent before inclusion in the study. All patients had chronic stable angina caused by a severe lesion in the LAD and were assigned for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). A major inclusion criterion in the study was the presence of a clearly identifiable plaque in the proximal LAD. One plaque was selected for analysis in each patient. MSCT of the …