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Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) is a diagnostic technique used to assess blood flow to the heart muscle, providing valuable insights into the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and evaluating cardiac function.
What Is Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging?
Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) is a diagnostic procedure that utilises a small amount of radioactive material, called a radiotracer, to evaluate blood flow to the heart muscle. This non-invasive imaging technique provides detailed insights into the function of the coronary arteries. It helps identify areas of the heart with reduced blood flow, which can indicate the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) or other cardiac conditions.
Who Needs Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging?
Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) is recommended for individuals who present with symptoms or risk factors suggestive of cardiovascular disease such as chest pain or breathlessness on exertion. The nuclear test can aid in the diagnosis of underlying coronary artery disease as well as assess damage to underlying heart muscle from a prior heart attack.
How Do I Prepare For Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging?
Preparing for Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging involves several important steps to ensure accurate and effective results. Discuss your medications with your healthcare provider, as some may need adjustments. Avoid consuming caffeine and nicotine at least 24 hours before the test to enhance the accuracy of the results. Refrain from heavy meals prior to the test.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, inform your healthcare provider, as considerations will be made to minimise potential risks associated with the use of small amounts of radiation during the imaging process.
What Happens During Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging?
During Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging, a small amount of radioactive material, a radiotracer, is injected into your bloodstream. The gamma camera captures detailed images of your heart at rest and, if applicable, during stress induced by exercise or pharmacological agents.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood pressure monitoring is continuous throughout to monitor your heart rhythm and blood pressure. In an exercise stress scan you will then be asked to exercise on a treadmill machine. At the peak of your exercise a small amount of tracer will be injected through an intravenous cannula into your vein. You will then be asked to lie still on a table for 15 minutes for images of your heart to be captured by a camera. After a period of rest additional images are taken for comparison to the stress images.
In some cases where patients may not be able to perform a treadmill test, the doctor may administer some medication that dilates the coronary vessels or increases the heart rate and contraction of the heart. The test usually takes 2 to 3 hours.
What To Do After Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging?
After Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging, a brief post-procedure observation ensures no immediate concerns or adverse reactions. Once cleared, individuals can typically resume normal activities. As radioactive tracer is used during the test, you should keep away from infants and pregnant women for 24 hours after the test.
A follow-up consultation with your healthcare provider will be given to discuss the results of your tests and the subsequent treatment plan.
What are the risks of a Nuclear Myocardial Perfusion Imaging?
Cardiac nuclear perfusion tests are generally safe. There is a small amount of radiation but has not been known to cause side effects or cancer. Complications are rare and may include irregular heartbeats, chest pain or heart attack and low blood pressure. There may also be a risk of accidental injury falling off the treadmill. Some people may experience flushing, anxiety, nausea if certain medicines are administered during the test. But these are usually mild and go away quickly. Patients will be monitored throughout the test for any complications or side effects that may occur.
