Journal introduction

Abstract

This issue provides readers with an executive summary of an important update to the Cardiac CT Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) by the American College of Cardiology Foundation, in collaboration with multiple societies, including the SCCT. The intent of these criteria is to guide the rational use of the procedure, namely avoidance of either underuse or overuse, and thereby leading to more optimal health care delivery and justifiable health care expenditures. Originally published in 2006, this version of the AUC represents a significant expansion of the rated criteria (increased from 37 to 93) on the basis of significant interval technical advances and clinical evidence development for cardiac CT. These advances are reflected in progression in the criteria considered appropriate for imaging and new clinical scenarios that reflect a broader range of considerations to use cardiac CT. Performance and optimal use measures represent the new reality in health care and cardiovascular imaging; therefore, although not “guidelines” per se, these criteria provide a pathway toward optimal utilization of imaging technology. I urge every imager and clinician who uses cardiac CT to not only become familiar with these criteria but also to take a personal stake in locally implementing these criteria to the best of their ability.