Coronary angiography is probably the most critical aspect of cardiac catheterization and is required in multiple clinical settings. Patients may present with stable chest pain syndromes, acute coronary syndromes, or life-threatening myocardial infarction, with other cardiac abnormalities such as valvular heart disease, or with other non-cardiac conditions requiring knowledge of coronary anatomy for safe management.

The technology and clinical techniques for coronary angiography have evolved rapidly over the years, but the fundamental understanding of normal coronary anatomy, pathological findings, and the imaging of bypass grafts still requires a basic understanding of coronary anatomy and pathology. In this lecture, Dr. Ragosta defines the important aspects of advanced coronary artery imaging with additional focus on coronary artery bypass grafts.

Note: This course is eligible for ACPE credit.

• To specify arterial characteristics that make diagnostic images difficult to attain
• To correctly identify bypass graft anatomy and pathology
• To anticipate and compensate for more advanced diagnostic challenges in coronary angiography