Office Hrs
Mon-Fri 8:00am -5:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 3:00pm

Services

Locations

 Testimonials Partners Insurance
   

Nuclear Heart Scan Preparation

  • Preparation for your Nuclear Heart Scan will depend on the type of exam.
  • Please bring previous imaging study results (MRI, CT, x-rays) such as reports, films or CD-Roms, if available.
  • Because of the magnetic field, you will be asked to wear metal-free clothing, or to change into a gown. You also will be asked to remove any metallic objects, such as jewelry, watches, and hair clips.
  • Inform your technologist of prior surgeries or metal implants, such as pacemakers or aneurysm clips.
  • Notify the staff if your are nursing or if there is a chance you could be pregnant.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes early to verify your registration.

During your exam – what to expect

  • Nuclear medicine uses a small, safe amount of radioactive “tracer,” or contrast (dye) agent, that go to specific organs, bones, or tissues.
  • The tracer will be administered orally or by an IV injection in your arm. It may take a few minutes to five hours for the tracer to reach the specific area to be studied. If there is a long wait period, you will be free to leave the center and return for your scan several hours later.
  • You will lie on a padded table. Once in position, the tracer emits gamma rays that are detected by a special camera. It works with computers to form images that provide data about the body area in question.
  • The nuclear medicine scan takes approximately 30-60 minutes.
  • These procedures are very safe. The amount of radiation needed for the exam is minimal and the body eliminates the tracer material typically within 24 hours.
  • Drinking extra water will help remove the tracer more quickly.

What happens after the exam?

  • A radiologist who specializes in a specific area of the body reviews your images (i.e., a cardiologist will review the images of your heart).
  • The radiologist prepares a diagnostic report to share with your doctor.
  • Your doctor will consider this information in context of your overall care, and talk with you about the results.
     

If you have additional questions about your appointment call 7Hills Healthcare center.