Cardiac Nuclear Imaging.

A nuclear exercise stress test uses a small amount of radioactive tracer injected into a vein to trace blood flow to the heart. A special camera, called a gamma camera, detects the radiation released by the tracer to produce images of the heart on the computer monitor. Combined with exercise, the test can help determine if there is adequate blood flow to the heart during activity versus at rest.

Nuclear medicine tests are extremely sensitive, and are able to detect many diseases at early stages. Unlike MRI and CT scans that give only structural information, nuclear medicine tests provide information about the functional status and viability of different organs and tissues.

In some cases patients who are unable to exercise to achieve their target heart rate are given a Persantine Stress Test. During this test  a medication, Persantine, is given to expand (dilate) the coronary arteries, similar to what happens during exercise. A radioactive tracer is also given to allow images of the heart muscle. This test is used to help your doctor determine whether your coronary arteries are blocked or narrowed as a result of coronary artery disease.

To prepare:

Do not eat or drink anything for 4 hours before the test. If you must take medications, drink only small sips of water to help you swallow your pills. Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages for 24 hours before the test, since caffeine will interfere with the results of your test. Products labeled caffeine-free and decaffeinated contain trace amounts of caffeine and should also be avoided.

Do not smoke on the day of the test, as nicotine will interfere with the results of your test.

Please bring a copy of all of your medications, including over-the-counter medications and supplements that you routinely take, to the test appointment.

On the day of the test, please dress in comfortable clothes and shoes that are easy to walk in, as you will be on a treadmill during the test.

During the test:

A nuclear medicine technologist will place an IV into a vein in your arm or hand and inject a small amount of radioactive tracer. The tracer is not a dye or contrast. After the tracer is injected, you will wait about 20 minutes before the first set of "resting" images are taken.

Then you will be asked to lie very still under the gamma camera with both arms above your head for about 15 to 20 minutes. The camera will record images that show blood flow through your heart at rest.

Next, you will have electrodes placed on your chest to monitor your EKG/ECG. Then you will begin to walk on a treadmill, increasing your exertion at regular intervals until you achieve the target heart rate. At this point a second dose of radioactive tracer will be injected into your IV. Your heart rate, EKG and blood pressure will be monitored throughout the test. If you are unable to achieve your target heart rate, medication may be given to simulate exercise.

About a half hour after you complete the exercise portion of the test, you'll be asked to again lie still under the camera with both arms over your head for about 15-20 minutes. The camera will record images that show blood flow through your heart during exercise. These images will be compared to the first set.

The appointment will take about 2 to 3 hours. The actual exercise part of the test lasts about 7-12 minutes.

If you weigh over 300 pounds, your test may be scheduled as a two-day test.

For more information or to make an appointment please call 1-203-276-4777.

For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).