MUGA Scan
What is a MUGA scan?
A multigated acquisition scan (MUGA), also called a blood pool scan, is a safe and painless
test used to evaluate the pumping function of the lower chambers of the heart or ventricles.
Using a small amount of radioactive tracer and special imaging equipment, the MUGA scan
estimates your heart function by measuring the ejection fraction. The ejection fraction is
the percentage of blood pumped with each heartbeat, with a normal ejection fraction being
greater than 50%.
Why is this test performed?
The test is used to assess heart function or ejection fraction.
Patient Preparation Instructions:
There is no special preparation required for this test, and there are no medication or food
restrictions. Wear comfortable clothes that can be easily removed, as you may be asked to
wear a hospital gown during the test.
What happens during the test?
• You should arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
• Before the test, lab personnel will explain the procedure in detail, including possible
complications or side effects. Please take this opportunity to ask any questions you may
have.
• Your test will take place in the Nuclear Cardiology Department. The clinical care area is
under physician supervision.
• You will be given a hospital gown to wear and asked to remove your clothing from the
waist up.
• Lab personnel will gently rub three small areas on your chest and place special patches
or electrodes on these areas. These electrodes are attached to an electrocardiograph
(ECG) monitor that displays your heart’s electrical activity.
• An intravenous line (IV) will be inserted into a vein in your arm.
• You will receive two injections in your IV. Approximately 20 minutes after the first
injection, you will be injected with a radioactive tracer that allows your red blood cells to
be seen under a special imaging device called a gamma camera. The radioactive tracer
stays in your blood for several hours but does not enter your body tissues.
• The IV will be removed from your arm once the test is completed.