Question 1

what is the definition or description of: myocardial perfusion scan with exercise?

Accepted Answer

Stress test: This is a type of stress test which uses exercise to increase the heart rate and stress the heart and then a tracer molecule is injected into an IV which shows normal and abnormal blood flow in the heart. This is compared to images at rest to determine whether there has been a heart attack or if there are concerning blockages of the coronary arteries.

Question 2

what is the purpose of a myocardial perfusion scan?

Accepted Answer

Nuclear stress test: This is a specialized form of stress test used to confirm the presence of coronary artery disease in patients suspected of having this problem. It uses a low-level nuclear tracer to assess blood flow to the heart muscle before and after exercise-induced stress.  In patients who cannot exercise, other pharmacologic means can be used such as adenosine, lexiscan, persantine,  or dobutamine.

Question 3

what is the function of a myocardial perfusion scan?

Accepted Answer

Blood flow to heart: It shows blood flow to the heart. It can show old scar of a heart attack or heart muscle that is not getting enough blood , which could mean a future heart attack.

Question 4

can i eat food before having myocardial perfusion scan?

Accepted Answer

No: No because the blood flow to stomach increased and it makes the image less accurate.

Question 5

can someone drive home after a myocardial perfusion scan?

Accepted Answer

Yes: You can drive home unless you are administered a medication for relaxation during the test as is sometimes necessary for people with severe claustrophobia. However, this is very, very rare because nuclear cameras are so open. Nearly 100% of the people who get a myocardial perfusion scan can drive home safely after the test.

Question 6

can you get results of your myocardial perfusion scan the same day?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes: Yes in some centers they are read the same day, but most take longer.

Question 7

why would someone be scanned both front side and back during the myocardial perfusion scan?

Accepted Answer

Complete imaging: The heart is a 3 dimensional structure and the images are 2 dimensional.  To completely visualize the entire heart, you need more than one view.  Hard to fully describe the moon without flying around to the back side.

Question 8

are there any medical complications from myocardial perfusion scan that would cause coughing?

Accepted Answer

No: No, not that i can think of.

Question 9

are there any side affects after having a myocardial perfusion scan if so can you tell me please?

Accepted Answer

Radiation...: Depending on what radiotracer is used, you will be exposed to a small amount of radiation but the benefits of the test should outweigh the risks.  Are you having pharmacologic or exercise test?  Some of the pharmacologic agents can cause some side effects such as bronchoconstriction but a medication called aminophylline can usually be administered to reverse the side effects.

Question 10

what are the risks in having a myocardial perfusion scan?

Accepted Answer

Minimal : There is a small amount of radiation from the scan but it is less than from a cat scan. If you do an exercise stress test, there is a small risk from the exercise portion but you are continuously monitored for any problems. Your job is to report any difficulties or symptoms during the test.

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Doctor answers about:

Myocardial perfusion scan with exercise

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: myocardial perfusion scan with exercise?

A member asked:

What is the purpose of a myocardial perfusion scan?

A member asked:

What is the function of a myocardial perfusion scan?

A member asked:

Can i eat food before having myocardial perfusion scan?

A member asked:

Can someone drive home after a myocardial perfusion scan?

A member asked:

Can you get results of your myocardial perfusion scan the same day?

A member asked:

Why would someone be scanned both front side and back during the myocardial perfusion scan?

A member asked:

Are there any medical complications from myocardial perfusion scan that would cause coughing?

A member asked:

Are there any side affects after having a myocardial perfusion scan if so can you tell me please?

A member asked:

What are the risks in having a myocardial perfusion scan?

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