Study Comparing CT Scan and Stress Test in Diagnosing Coronary Artery Disease in Patients Hospitalized for Chest Pain

A Randomized Trial Comparing Multi-Detector Coronary CT Angiography and Stress Myocardial Perfusion Imaging as the Initial Test for the Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease in Intermediate Risk Patients Admitted for Chest Pain

The purpose of this study is to determine whether coronary artery CT scanning or nuclear stress testing is better at diagnosing chest pain patients with coronary artery disease to select appropriate candidates for coronary catheterization and re-vascularization.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patient admitted for chest pain or pressure
• patient at intermediate short term risk of MI or death (AHA/ACC guidelines)

Exclusion Criteria:

• prior diagnosis of coronary artery disease
• evidence of ongoing myocardial infarction (and other high risk criteria per AHA/ACC guidelines)
• contraindications to EKG-gated CT scanning with iodinated intravenous contrast under beta-blockade
• pregnancy
• presence of an implanted pacemaker or defibrillator
• stress myocardial perfusion imaging, coronary CTA or coronary catheterization within the last 6 months