ALERT CONTENT PLACEHOLDER

Location

Contact

Hours

Location

Contact

Hours

Location

Contact

Hours

Location

Contact

Hours


 What We Do

Positron emission tomography (PET) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is an imaging process that utilizes a radioactive tracer (Rubidium-82) to show how well blood flows to the muscle of the heart (myocardium). This test is used to diagnose the presence or absence of coronary artery disease.​

 How to Prepare

  • Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time to register
  • Do not EAT two hours prior to your scheduled appointment time
  • DO NOT EAT or DRINK caffeinated, decaffeinated or caffeine-free products (such as cola, Mountain Dew, chocolate, coffee, energy drinks, any tea) for 48 hours before the test
  • Do not take these medications for at least 48 hours before the test. Ask your doctor, pharmacist or nurse if you are not sure
    • Diet pills
    • Excedrin
    • Anacin
    • Tylenol #1, 2 or 3
    • Viagra, Levitra, Cialis
    • Aggrenox, Theophylline
  • Take your medications, if your physician did not instruct otherwise
  • DRINK at least 2 cups of water prior to the test for improved venous access

What happens during the test?

Patient Intake:

  • The technologist will take medical history, explain the test, insert an intravenous and ask you to sign a consent form

Patient Set Up:

  • The technologist will bring the patient to the scanner room
  • Lie on your back in the scanner with your arms positioned above your head
  • Blood pressure cuff and electrocardiogram set up for monitoring

Patient Imaging and Stress Test:

  • Brief CT scan
  • REST IMAGE: first dose of radioactive tracer (for REST images) given through the IV, and an image taken
  • STRESS TEST performed using a medication:
    • Side effects may include: shortness of breath, chest pressure, headache, or nausea/upset stomach. The technologist will ensure side effects resolve by the end of the stress medication infusion
    • It is very important for you to tell the technologist if you experience any discomfort or other symptoms during the test
  • STRESS IMAGE: second dose of radioactive tracer (for STRESS images) given again through the IV, and images taken
  • A brief CT scan will be performed
  • The total time in the scanner will be approximately 30-45 minutes

How long will the test take?

The appointment will take approximately 1-1.5 hours. A report will be sent to your referring physician within 7 clinical days.

What risks are possible?

There are no side effects from the radioactive tracer. It is not a contrast dye. It does not contain iodine and will not harm your kidneys.

With stress testing, there is a one in 10,000 risk of cardiac complications. A physician will be present to assess all cases prior to the stress portion, as well as during and after the test to ensure safety.

Important Notes

Please let the technologist know if you think that you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Please let the technologist know if you will be travelling across the border within 24 hours after the test.

Please provide at least 48 hours' notice should you not be able to attend the scheduled appointment.

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