Noninvasive coronary imaging in the new millennium: a comparison of computed tomography and magnetic resonance techniques.

Until recently, visualization of the coronary arteries was the sole domain of catheter-based x-ray angiography. In an effort to detect and assess coronary artery disease noninvasively, magnetic resonance imaging, electron beam computed tomography, and multislice spiral computed tomography have emerged as potential modalities. Besides visualization of the vessel lumen, these techniques may be capable of imaging and characterizing atherosclerotic plaques. None of these techniques are yet routinely used, but considering the pace of the technical advancements, clinically reliable noninvasive coronary angiography can be expected in the coming years.