Nuclear Stress Testing
We believe that excellence starts with patient care and continues with quality images. That is why Complete Diagnostics Services only uses the latest diagnostic imaging devices. Not only do you as the physician and patient expect clear images, we do too.
Nuclear Stress Test:
Nuclear cardiac stress testing is a powerful tool used to see pictures of the heart shortly after have exercise and/or while resting.
These images can be used to:
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examine the blood flow to the heart
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determine the amount of damage to the heart muscle after a heart attack
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diagnose the cause of the chest pain (angina)
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check the health of the arteries
Nuclear Scans provide valuable information about circulation and function of the heart. Traditional stress tests with an EKG on measure the heart’s electrical activity, nuclear can verify adequate blood flow to the heart, blocked blood vessels and if the heart is functioning properly.
Complete Diagnostic Services uses Digirad Portable Nuclear Cameras, by bringing with equipment right into the office we offer a strict stark law compliance.
Types of Scans:
SPECT scans: This imaging method uses quick acting tracers to create 3-d cross sectional images of the heart. With our Digirad nuclear camera the patient is sitting upright and the camera rotates around the patient taking pictures. SPECT scans are used to locate blockages of blood vessels or to determine the volume of blood flow to the heart.
MUGA scans: This type of scan that uses an EKG to precisely time when a series of images is taken. A MUGA creates images of the heart when it is contracting and relaxing. MUGA’s are usually used to determine the amount of blood being pumped from the left ventricle to determine the ejection fraction.
Patient Preparation:
Since this is a four hour test and requires the use of radioactive isotopes, the patient must carefully follow these instructions:
No caffeinated products as well as decaffeinated products 12 hours prior to exam.
Nothing by mouth 4 hours prior to exam. (Diabetic patients may have a light meal 2 hours prior to exam).
Do not smoke day of exam.
Some medications, must be stopped prior to testing, please verify.
Wear comfortable loose fitting clothing and shoes.