Nuclear Stress Test

The patient will have IV access started at the beginning of the test. The first dose of Cardiolite is given to make the heart show up on the pictures. The patient is then given crackers and water and waits for 45 minutes. Resting pictures are then taken with the gamma camera. These take approximately 15 minutes. The patient is then taken to the stress lab where the heart is stressed either by walking on the treadmill or by receiving medications. The patient will also receive a second dose of cardiolite during the stress portion of the test. The patient then drinks some more water or coffee and waits approximately 45 minutes to one hour. Pictures are then taken again with the gamma camera.

Steps to prepare for the procedure: (click here for instructions)

Education about the procedure:

Cardiolite is a small amount of radioactivity. It does not make you feel any differently. Medications used in place of the treadmill can make you feel uncomfortable. If you receive Adenosine, you may feel chest pressure, flushing or shortness of breath. If you receive Dobutamine, you may feel your heart pounding. These symptoms are short lived and do not indicate a problem with your heart.

Questions I may have about the procedure:

1. Why do I need to have this procedure?
If you are experiencing any heart symptoms, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, this test can be valuable in evaluating any problem with blood flow to the heart. It is also a good diagnostic tool if you have a high risk for heart problems such as diabetes, hypertension or family history of heart problems.

2. When and how will I find out about my results?
Someone from our office will contact you, usually within 3 to 5 days