Nuclear Stress Testing

Procedure: The test is performed in two parts either all on one day or on two separate days. We ask that you arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. We do our best to adhere to the schedule, so we encourage and request that you be on time for your appointments.

  1. During the exercise portion of the test an intravenous line and EKG leads are put in place.
    Either a regular treadmill exercise test or a Persantine infusion (for those who are unable
    to exercise on the treadmill) is then performed. Following an interval of 30-60 minutes,
    about 15 minutes of pictures will be taken.
  2. The resting images taken for comparison are done separately. This also involves another
    injection of tracer with a 15 minute imaging session, and may be done either before or
    after exercise. After examining and comparing both sets of pictures we are often able to
    detect areas of abnormal blood flow within your heart.

Preparation:

  1. Do not eat or drink (except water) for four hours prior to your test/appointment time.
  2. Do not have any caffeine for 24 hours prior to the stress (exercise) portion of the test [no
    coffee (including decaf), tea, cola, chocolate or red wine].
  3. Bring sneakers and comfortable clothes for the treadmill exercise test.
  4. Call our office for instructions regarding what medications (if you are already taking some) should be taken the
    morning of the test. If there are any questions please call the office. Diabetic patients
    should call their doctor for instructions regarding diet and insulin.
  5. You will be asked to raise both arms above your head during the imaging portion of the
    test. If you anticipate a problem with this please inform our office.

If you are scheduled for a one day stress test; the entire test takes app. 4-5 hours. During
the interval between both parts, you may leave the office, but limit any exertion until the test is completed. You may take a cab or bus to your home or office if you wish. You may have a light snack immediately after your first set of pictures. We ask that you return on time as we try to maintain a timely schedule.

Analysis of the test requires computer processing time. Results will be telephoned to your physician. A typed written report will be faxed to your physician the next day.

Note: You will be called to confirm your appointment. The medications for this test are ordered especially for you and cannot be re-used. For this reason we will charge a $250.00 (two hundred and fifty dollars) fee for failure to notify the office of cancellation prior to 5:00 pm the evening before. Please check with your primary care physician or insurance carrier for specific requirements for your coverage (pre-certification and/or referral). If you have any questions please call this office and we will be happy to assist you.