Nuclear
Imaging Lab

Nuclear imaging is a valuable tool that allows your care team to see how well your heart muscle and blood flow work. During the test, a small amount of tracer is injected into your bloodstream. Special cameras then capture images of your heart from different angles, giving your doctor a detailed picture to guide your diagnosis and treatment plan.

At our Nuclear Lab, you can expect:

• Expert testing and interpretation by experienced cardiovascular specialists
• A calm, comfortable environment for your imaging study
• Clear instructions before and after your test so you know exactly what to do
• Personalized follow-up care to help you understand your results and next steps

Nuclear imaging helps detect and evaluate:

• Coronary artery disease
• Areas of poor blood flow to the heart
• Heart muscle damage from previous heart attacks
• Heart pumping function

We offer various types of nuclear imaging tests, including:

• Myocardial perfusion scan: Evaluates blood flow to the heart muscle
• Radionuclide ventriculography: Measures ejection fraction, stroke volume, and cardiac output

Before the test begins, you’ll have an electrocardiogram (EKG) and an IV placed in your arm for the tracer. You’ll lie on a padded table under a specialized camera, which will move around you to capture images at different angles.

• The test typically takes 4 to 6 hours to complete
• Afterward, you’ll be advised to drink fluids to help flush the tracer from your body
• The tracer is safe and typically passes from the body within 24 hours

For the most accurate results, you may be asked to avoid:

• Smoking
• Alcohol
• Caffeinated beverages
• Certain medications (your provider will give you specific guidance)

Please let us know if you are pregnant or nursing, as nuclear imaging is not recommended in these cases.

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