Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (Exercise Treadmill)

Your physician has referred you to the Diagnostic Services Department at United Hospital Center for a test called Myocardial Perfusion Imaging. This test is performed in conjunction with a stress test.

The Myocardial Perfusion scan gives the doctor a visual picture of your heart muscle. A myocardial perfusion scan involves an intravenous (IV) injection of a small amount of radioisotope (Technetium Sestamibi) with minimal radiation exposure. Prior to the stress test, an IV will be started. The IV consists of a sterile needle inserted into a vein in your arm. This needle will be connected to a bag of sterile fluid with a flexible tube running between the needle and the fluid bag. You will be asked to walk on a treadmill and while you are walking the Technetium is injected through IV tubing. You will continue walking for approximately one minute after the injection to ensure the radioisotope is circulating to your heart muscle. After the completion of the exercise, you will have an approximate waiting time of 30-60 minutes before imaging of your heart. You will be asked to lie on a table for approximately 15 minutes while the scanner will rotate around your chest.

It will be necessary for you to read and sign a consent form before taking this test. In addition to explaining the risks involved with testing, the form gives the doctor permission to treat you should an emergency situation arise. By signing the form, you are consenting to the test and are acknowledging you have been informed about risks related to testing.

Special instructions to be followed in preparation for a Myocardial Perfusion Scan:

1. The morning of the exam you may only have a liquid breakfast consisting of water, black decaffeinated coffee and/or decaffeinated tea. If you are a DIABETIC, you may eat a light breakfast. If you're taking insulin or an oral hypoglycemic agent, bring it to the hospital with you so it will be available or you to take when you eat.
2. DO NOT smoke for at least 2 hours before the test
3. Wear shoes that are appropriate for walking or running (preferably tennis shoes). High heels and slippers are not permitted.
4. Men should wear shorts or trousers.
5. Women should wear slacks or shorts. No one piece undergarments may be worn during the test.
6. All current medications should be continued, unless otherwise specified by your physician.
7. Please bring a list of the medications you are presently taking.
8. If you are an in-patient you will be brought to the Diagnostic Imaging Department prior to your actual test time. If you are an outpatient arrive 1 hour prior to the scheduled test time and check in at the Outpatient Registration Desk in the main lobby of the hospital.
9. If you need to cancel your test, please call at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled time. This will allow us to schedule another patient for this important diagnostic procedure.

If you are pregnant, or think you might be, tell your doctor and the technician BEFORE your exam.