Resting Myocardial Perfusion Scan
What is a resting myocardial perfusion scan?
A resting myocardial perfusion scan is used to assess the resting blood flow to the heart
muscle (myocardium) and determine which areas may have decreased blood flow. This is
done by injecting a radioactive tracer, which is absorbed by the healthy myocardium. The
scan can help differentiate areas with and without adequate blood flow and may suggest
blockage of the coronary arteries.
Why is this test performed?
• Determine your likelihood of having significant coronary artery disease
• Assess heart muscle after a heart attack
• Assess the effectiveness of your cardiac treatment plan
• It may be used in conjunction with additional imaging to assess myocardial viability
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 3 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 be injected with a radioactive tracer that will allow your heart to be seen under
a special imaging machine called a gamma camera. No symptoms or allergic reaction
are possible with the tracer.