NUCLEAR IMAGING

A Cardiac Nuclear Stress Test, also called a Nuclear Scan, is similar to a standard treadmill stress test, but provides the doctor with much more information by using a radioactive tracer (Myoview).  A small amount of the Myoview is injected into the bloodstream in order to obtain the necessary images of the heart.   A Nuclear Medicine camera (scanner) records pictures of the heart by using x-rays to produce images of the radioactive material. The radiation exposure is very low; it is about the same as that in a chest x-ray. The procedure is usually done in conjunction with a treadmill stress test, but can also be performed using medicines such as Adenosine or Dobutamine that effectively simulate the effects of exercise on the heart.

This test will give the doctor the same information as a treadmill stress test, plus the following:

• Which area(s) of the heart is/are not getting enough blood.
• How quickly the heart recovers after exercise.
• Any irregular heart rhythms.
• If the patient has had a heart attack in the past.

• Do not eat or drink anything past midnight the night before the test.  
• Ask your Physician if you should take your usual medications.
• No caffeine or nicotine for 24 hours prior to the test.
• Wear a two-piece outfit and comfortable shoes, such as tennis shoes.  Do not wear open-toed shoes such as sandals, slides, etc.
• Bathe as usual-the morning of your test or the night before.
• Brush teeth before arriving for test.
• Bring the Order for your procedure (paperwork from your Physician) with you to the  hospital.
• Please bring a written list of your daily medications (or bring your medications) with you to the hospital.
• Please allow two to four hours for your visit with us.  
• Please arrive at the hospital, to check in, 15 minutes early.
• Any cancellation must be confirmed by noon on the business day prior to your exam.

• You will check in at Registration on the first floor just inside the Main Entrance.  
• Give your Order for Procedure (in the paperwork from your Physician) to the Registration clerk.
• The Registration clerk will ask you a few questions to update your information in the computer.  Be sure to bring your insurance card with you if you have one.
• The Registration clerk will give you directions on how to get to the Diagnostic Imaging (X-ray) Department on the 1st floor. 

• You will be asked to sign a consent form.  Staff will be available to answer any questions you may have.
• You will be asked questions regarding your medical history.  
• Sticky patches (electrodes) will be attached to your chest for an EKG.
• Blood pressures and EKG's will be monitored during the procedure.  
• An IV line will be inserted into your arm for the injection of the Myoview.
• A Nuclear Medicine Technologist will record a first set of images (a "scan") of your heart at rest, by using a Nuclear Medicine camera.
• Next you will be asked to walk on a treadmill to increase your heart rate.  If you are unable to exercise, a medication (usually Dobutamine or Adenosine) will be used to increase your heart rate just as if you were exercising.   
• Once your target heart rate is obtained (based on your age) a second dose of Myoview will be administered for the Nuclear Medicine Technologist to record a second "scan" of your heart.

• Any unusual feelings in the chest, arms, neck, jaw or back.
• Severe fatigue.
• Lightheadedness or dizziness.
• Shortness of breath.

• The Cardiologist or Radiologist will review all the images of before and after exercise (or medication induced exercise), to compare your heart's function with and without exercise.
• The Cardiologist or Radiologist will inform your physician of your test results.
• If no further immediate treatment is necessary, you will be discharged.