Cardiac Imaging FAQ

1. What is a Myocardial Perfusion Stress Test?

Myocardial Perfusion Stress Testing is done by the Nuclear Medicine department at Universal Imaging. The test involves an injection of a small amount of radioactive material, which circulates in the bloodstream and shows if your heart muscle is receiving adequate blood supply under stress and under resting conditions.

2. What are some reasons my physician is prescribing this test for me?

This test ensures that you have no narrowed heart arteries which could increase your risk for developing a heart attack.

3. How long is the exam?

Most stress tests are between 3 to 4 hours.

4. How safe is a Myocardial Perfusion Stress Test?

Any stress procedure may have some risk, and you should definitely consult your physician regarding the risks and benefits of this type of procedure. The radioactive material Myoview has been shown to be safe, with an extremely low incidence of adverse reactions. This test is performed routinely worldwide, under physician supervision.

5. How is the test performed?

This test consists of two parts, after exercising and under resting conditions. When checking in at Universal Imaging your technologist administrating the test will inform you if the exercise or rest portion of the procedure will be done first. As in a regular stress test ECG electrodes will be attached to your chest. This will allow the technologist and supervising physician to monitor electrical conduction before, during, and after exercise. A blood pressure cuff will be placed on your arm to monitor your blood pressure during the test as well. Additionally, an intravenous (I.V.) line will be placed in your hand or arm vein to allow ease of the radiopharmaceutical injection. At the end of the exam the I.V. will be removed.

6. What does the exercise portion of the exam consist of?

The exercise portion of the examination is done on a treadmill. The exercising will start off slowly and approximately every three minutes the pace will gradually increase. Your heart rate and blood pressure will be closely monitored throughout the exam. When you reach your peak exercise level then the radioactive material will be injected into the I.V., and you will be asked to continue exercising for an additional one minute.

7. What happens if I am unable to exercise?

Certain people may not be able to complete the exercise portion adequately on the treadmill therefore a different type of stress testing may be appropriate. Universal Imaging offers a chemical stress test that doesn’t actually increase your heart rate. It opens the arteries in order to get blood flowing more easily. A reversing medication is given even if no side effects (shortness of breath, headache, and chest discomfort) are felt before the test is completed. Most importantly this test is also completed under the supervision of a physician.

8. Are there any special preparations I need to be aware of?

You should always wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for exercise and comfortable shoes for walking. Always consult a physician regarding any medication that should be taken before, or held until after, the test. Certain medications may interfere with the effectiveness of the exam.