What To Expect.
For your test you will be asked to change into a gown and an IV will be started through which the first dose of tracer (Cardiolite) is given. After sitting in a waiting room for approximately 30 minutes while the Cardiolite circulates to your heart, you will be escorted to another room for pictures to be taken under a "camera" (a special machine that detects the Cardiolite in your heart muscle). For the pictures, you will typically be asked to lie on your back for about 12 minutes while the "camera" moves slowly around you as it records pictures. After moving to a treadmill room, electrodes (sticky patches) will be placed in several places on your chest. Wires are clipped to the electrodes to record your heartbeat (EKG) during the test. You will then either exercise on a treadmill (see Treadmill Stress Test for more information) or a drug (Adenosine) that simulates exercise to your heart will be given. At peak exercise, a second dose of Cardiolite is then given and then more pictures are taken under the "camera". A Nurse and/or a Nuclear Technologist will be with you throughout the test. Please plan to allow 2-1/2 to 3 hours for the completion of your test.
Is a Nuclear SPECT Test safe?
The test will expose you to some radiation from the Cardiolite (approximately the equivalent of a chest x-ray). There are no x-rays used by the "camera". If you are pregnant, if you think you may be pregnant, or if you are a nursing mother, please be certain to inform your doctor and the staff performing your test. There is a small amount of risk with the exercise portion of the test since it stresses your heart. Highly-qualified staff will be with you throughout your exam to handle any emergency that might arise.
What the pictures look like.
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