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Nuclear Medicine Cardiac Viability Instructions in English
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Where:
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Report to the Radiology Department on first floor of . You should arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment time in order to be registered. |
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Purpose: |
This test evaluates the heart. |
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Preparation:
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If you are a woman of childbearing age and there is a chance you may be pregnant or if you are currently breast-feeding, please consult your physician before scheduling this exam.
There is no special preparation for this test.
Your normal medications may be taken prior to your test.
Please do not bring children with you to the appointment. |
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What to Expect:
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A small amount of a radioactive medication will be injected into your vein through a small needle placed in your arm. The medication will accumulate in your heart so that x-ray pictures can be taken. The amount of radiation you will be exposed to is similar to that from routine x-ray procedures such as an Upper GI exam or a CT exam. About 15 minutes after the injection, while you are lying comfortably on your back, a special camera will take pictures of your heart at various angles. It will take about 30 minutes to complete this part of your exam. It is important that you remain very still while the pictures are being taken.
You then may leave the Nuclear Medicine Department but must return within 3 hours. While you are away you will need to drink 2 or more 8-oz glasses of water. When you return, you will be asked to urinate. Then, again, while you are lying on your back, the camera will take pictures of your heart. This will take about 30 minutes.
The radiologist's report of the results will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results of the test with you. |
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After Care:
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Drink plenty of fluids for at least 24 hours after testing.
Normal activities and diet may be resumed. |
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Questions: |
Please call 205-930-3278 if you have additional questions. |
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