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MUGA Scan |
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A MUGA scan evaluates the pumping function of the heart. This exam takes approximately one hour.
How you should prepare There are no restrictions prior to this exam. You may eat, drink and take all of your prescribed medications. Wear comfortable clothes without metal fasteners, including zippers, buttons and snaps. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete registration. Bring with you: Your appointment form; insurance information, including your insurance card; valid photo i.d. Please let us know about any of the following: Pregnancy, known or possible; if you are a nursing mother; allergies or sensitivities to any substances or drugs
What happens during the exam
A nuclear medicine technologist will inject a small amount of stannous chloride into a vein in your arm. This substance prepares your red blood cells for a small amount of radioactive tracer, which will be injected into your arm 30 minutes later. This combination of injections "tags" your red blood cells so they can be detected by the camera.
For the imaging part of the exam, the nuclear medicine technologist will attach three electrodes (small, round sticky patches) to the skin of your chest. Men may have their chest hair shaved to allow for a better connection. The electrodes are attached to an electrocardiograph monitor (ECG) that charts your heart's electrical activity during the test.
Next you will lie on a cushioned table under the camera. The camera will be focused on your heart and will analyze the amount of "tagged" red blood cells pumped out of the heart with each heartbeat. The imaging portion will take approximately 30 minutes. The technologist will be in the room with you for the entire exam.
After your exam
Unless directed otherwise, you can resume normal activities immediately after this exam. The tracer remains in your body for a short time and is cleared through natural bodily functions.
Your images will be interpreted by a board-certified radiologist specializing in body imaging. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the results.
MUGA Scans are available at: Coon Rapids and Southdale |
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