Can a CT scan replace PET for heart disease diagnosis?

NCT ID NCT04316676

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: Emory University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compared two types of heart scans—CT and PET—to see if CT can measure blood flow to the heart as accurately as PET, which is the current gold standard. Researchers enrolled 20 adults with suspected coronary artery disease. Each participant received both a CT scan and a PET scan, and the results were compared. The goal was to determine if CT could be a reliable alternative for diagnosing blockages in heart arteries.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that CT scans are as good as PET scans for diagnosing heart artery disease, potentially offering a faster, cheaper, and more widely available diagnostic option.
What could go wrong: This was a small study with only 20 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. It compared imaging methods, not treatments, so it won't directly improve outcomes.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

atherosclerosis cardiovascular disorder coronary artery disorder myocardial ischemia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Emory University Hospital

Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States

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