What A Nuclear Test Shows.

A Nuclear Test (also known as 'Nuclear Study' or 'Nuclear SPECT Test') is performed to determine the adequacy of the blood supply of the heart. The test uses a small amount of a radioactive fluid known as a tracer which is injected into a vein (IV) in your arm. The tracer is absorbed by the heart in a manner similar to the nutrients in your blood. A special 'camera' then shows the tracer as it is absorbed by heart: more in areas with better or normal blood supply, less in areas with limited blood supply.

To Prepare For Your Test.

Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and comfortable rubber-soled shoes (for walking on the treadmill).

Please do not eat for four (4) hours prior to the exam.

Some medicines (such as drugs known as Beta-blockers) work to keep your heart rate from rising normally. You may be asked to withhold a dose or two of these medicines prior to your test. Any other medicines may be taken as you normally do with small sips of water or juice. If you are uncertain if you should take any of your medicines, please contact your doctor.

An Important Notice.

DO NOT DRINK COFFEE (EVEN DECAF), CAFFINATED SODAS, OR EAT CHOCOLATE. EVEN SMALL AMOUNTS OF CAFFEINE CAN INTERFERE WITH YOUR STUDY'S RESULTS!

For additional information...

...please click here.