Myocardial Perfusion Scan, Resting

Overview

What is a Myocardial Perfusion Scan, Resting?

A myocardial perfusion scan is a type of nuclear scan that uses very small amounts of radioactive materials (radiopharmaceuticals) to assess the heart's function and structure. It is used to assess the blood flow to the myocardium (heart muscle) and to determine what areas of the myocardium have decreased blood flow. This is done by injecting a radioactive isotope (thallium, tetrofosmin, or cardiolite) into a vein in your arm or hand. Any areas of the myocardium that have blocked or partially blocked arteries will be seen on the scan as "cold spots," or "defects," because these areas will be unable to take in the isotope into the myocardium.

Reasons for the Procedure

Possible indications for a resting myocardial perfusion scan may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• chest pain, either new onset or occurring over a period of days or longer
  
  
• heart attack (also called myocardial infarction, or MI)
  
  
• to assess blood flow to areas of the myocardium that have been reperfused (coronary artery blood flow restored) by bypass surgery, angioplasty (the opening of a coronary artery using a balloon or other method), or stent (a tiny expandable metal coil placed inside the artery to keep the artery open)

Risks of the Procedure

There have been rare adverse reactions to the radioactive tracer, but these were easily treated. The radioactive tracer is used in very small amounts and is considered safe.

NOTE: If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant, or if you are a nursing mother, you should inform your physician.

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