Nuclear Cardiology Imaging
Nuclear cardiology imaging is a non-invasive test that uses a small amount of safe radioactive material (called a tracer) to create detailed images of the heart muscle and blood flow. These images help assess how well your heart is functioning and can assist in diagnosing a variety of heart conditions.
This test is often referred to as a nuclear stress test. While similar to a traditional exercise stress test, it differs in that it uses a radioactive tracer instead of an ultrasound (echocardiogram) to capture images. Nuclear stress testing provides high-resolution pictures of the heart both at rest and under stress, and is considered highly accurate for detecting and monitoring coronary artery disease (CAD).
How Does It Work?
Nuclear cardiology imaging can be performed during exercise or with medication that mimics the effects of physical activity.
Here’s how it works:
- A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into a vein. This tracer travels through the bloodstream and is absorbed by the heart muscle.
- A special gamma camera is used to take images of the heart at rest.
- Next, your heart is placed under stress, either through exercise (using a treadmill or stationary bike) or medication (such as dobutamine or adenosine).
- After the stress phase, additional images are taken to compare blood flow and heart function before and after stress.
This process allows doctors to detect areas of reduced blood flow, damaged heart tissue, or abnormal heart function
Why Might You Need It?
Your doctor may recommend nuclear cardiology imaging if you’re experiencing symptoms such as:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or fatigue
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
This test is commonly used to diagnose or monitor coronary artery disease, a condition where the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. It can also help guide treatment decisions and monitor progress in patients with existing heart disease.
What Does It Test For? What Does It Show?
Nuclear stress testing provides important information about:
- How well your heart performs under stress
- Blood flow to the heart muscle
- Presence of narrowed or blocked coronary arteries
- Areas of heart damage from a past heart attack
- Effectiveness of ongoing treatments
- Suitability for heart surgery or return to physical activity
By highlighting areas of reduced blood flow or damaged tissue, this test helps your care team understand your heart’s condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan.