Nuclear ventriculography

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Heart, front view

Nuclear ventriculography

Definition:

Nuclear ventriculography is a test that uses radioactive materials called tracers to make heart chambers and blood vessels visible. The procedure is non-invasive. The heart structures are not touched by instruments.

Alternative Names:
Cardiac blood pooling imaging; Heart scan - nuclear; Radionuclide ventriculography (RNV); Multiple gate acquisition scan (MUGA)
How the test is performed:

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A radioactive isotope called technetium is injected into your vein. Radioactive isotopes attach to red blood cells and pass through the heart in the circulating blood. The radioactive isotope can be traced through the heart using special cameras or scanners. The images may be combined with an electrocardiogram.

You will be tested when you are resting, then tested again with exercise or after you take certain medications.

How to prepare for the test:

You may betold not to eat or drinkbeverages containing caffeine or alcohol for several hours before the test.

How the test will feel:

You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the IV is inserted. You may have trouble staying still during the test.

Why the test is performed:

The test will show how well the blood is pumping through the heart, and will check for clogged arteries.