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Nuclear ventriculography

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Definition:

Nuclear ventriculography is a test that uses radioactive materials called tracers to show the heart chambers. The procedure is non-invasive . The instruments do not directly touch the heart.

Alternative Names:

Cardiac blood pooling imaging; Heart scan - nuclear; Radionuclide ventriculography (RNV); Multiple gate acquisition scan (MUGA)

How the test is performed:

The test is done while you are resting.

The health care provider will inject a radioactive material called technetium into your vein. This substance attaches to red blood cells and passes through the heart into flowing blood. Special cameras or scanners trace the substance as it moves through the heart area. In other words, the red blood cells inside the heart that carry the radioactive material form an image that the camera sees. The images may be combined with an electrocardiogram and, using computer software, made to appear as if the heart is moving.

How to prepare for the test:

You may be told not to eat or drink beverages for several hours before the test.

How the test will feel:

You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the IV is inserted into your vein, usually in the arm. You may have trouble staying still during the test.

Why the test is performed:

The test will show how well the blood is pumping through different parts of the heart.

• Review Date: 5/30/2007
• Reviewed By: Glenn Gandelman, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.C., Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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