Comprehensive Cardiology Services

Arundel Heart Associates
Text Box: The Arundel Heart Associates Nuclear Medicine Department is certified by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Nuclear Medicine Laboratories

Cardiac Nuclear Imaging
Text Box: What is Nuclear Stress Testing? Nuclear Stress Testing combines a regular stress test with the powerful tool of nuclear imaging. The stress portion of the test may be similar to that done during regular stress testing (on a treadmill) or it may be a medication induced stress test with persantine or adenosine (a medication given intravenously). Nuclear pictures of the heart are taken before and after exercising. Abnormalities in these picture tell us if there is a blockage in the arteries in your heart. It can even tell you if you had a heart attack in the past. The test will also calculate an “ejection fraction” which is a measure of how well the heart muscle is pumping . Before the Test No smoking or caffeine for 24 hrs before the test. Do not eat for 4 hours before the test. Small sips of water are OK If you are pregnant tell the technician immediately, since this type of test should not be performed during pregnancy. During Your Stress Test Electrodes (small pads) are placed on your chest and stomach. These connect you to the EKG machine. The technician will show you how to walk on the treadmill. At first it is very easy. As the test goes on, the speed will increase and the angle will become steeper. Try to walk as long as possible. The further you go on the treadmill the more reliable the results will be. When you think you can only walk one more minute let the physician know so that the nuclear injection can be given. After the injection is in, you will need to walk an additional minute on the treadmill. During the test your EKG and your blood pressure will be monitored. Be sure to report any symptoms such as: —Chest arm or jaw discomfort. —Severe Shortness of Breath —Fatigue or dizziness —Leg cramps or soreness Never stop walking suddenly or jump off the treadmill as serious injury can result. If you need to stop, notify the doctor and he will slow down or stop the treadmill. Persantine or Adenosine Cardiolite For patients that are unable to walk on the treadmill, an intravenous medication (persantine or adenosine) can be given. This replaces the nee walking on the treadmill and still allows the “stress” test to be performed. Call 410-768-0919 to schedule your test. Home