Advanced Technology

Nuclear Cardiology

What is Nuclear Cardiology?
A Nuclear Cardiology exam is a non-invasive exam used to evaluate the heart and surrounding blood vessels. It can help doctors determine if blood flow in or around the heart is insufficient and if a patient is at risk of experiencing a heart attack.

How does Nuclear Cardiology work?
A solution (radiopharmaceutical tracer) is injected into your arm. As the tracer disseminates through your blood vessels, a special camera (known as a Gamma camera), captures the flow of the radiopharmaceutical. The Gamma camera produces images that can then be interpreted by a Nuclear Cardiology specialist.

Typically, two sets of images are captured; one while the patient is resting and another while the patient has an elevated heart rate. To elevate the heart rate and increase the flow of blood to the heart and surrounding vessels, patients may be asked to exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike. If a patient is unable to exercise (for example, due to an injury), then the heart rate can be altered using medications administered by a specialist.

How should I prepare for this procedure?
Patients are asked to avoid beverages and solid foods for at least four hours before the procedure. It�s especially important to avoid food and beverages that contain caffiene. Wear comfortable clothing to the exam but avoid clothing with metal buttons.

Please notify your doctor if you are pregnant, diabetic, are allergic to radiopharmaceuticals, or are taking certain prescription medications.

Is there any pain involved?
A Nuclear Cardiology exam is a non-invasive procedure, so there is little to no pain at all. Some patients may feel a slight discomfort when they are injected with the radiopharmaceutical material (via the arm) used in the exam.