Please read this leaflet carefully before your appointment. It contains specific instructions that must be followed for the heart scan to be performed at the RVI.
What is a Myocardial Perfusion Scan?
This scan evaluates the blood supply to the heart’s coronary arteries using a radioactive injection. It helps doctors understand how well your heart is functioning and identify any areas where blood flow may be restricted.
Preparation and Caffeine Restrictions
- Caffeine: You must avoid all caffeinated drinks and chocolate for 24 hours before the scan (including decaffeinated tea/coffee, cola, and energy drinks).
- Medications: Stop taking Dipyridamole (Persantin/Asasantin), Amynophylline (Phyllocontin), and Theophylline (Uniphyllin/Slo-phyllin/Nuelin SA) 24 hours before the test. Continue all other medications as normal.
- Weight: Please call the department if you weigh more than 100kg (15.5 stones) as this affects the dose required.
- Attendance: Plan to be at the hospital for 2.5 hours. Please attend alone if possible.
Diabetes, Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding
Diabetes: The test does not affect diabetes; take your insulin and medications as usual.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: If you are or may be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, you must inform us before your scan. For safety, pregnant persons or children should not accompany you to the appointment.
What does the scan involve?
The procedure begins with a 4-minute infusion of Adenosine to increase your heart rate (simulating exercise). During this time, we will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG, and give the radioactive injection. Afterward, you’ll have a 1-hour wait during which you can eat and drink (caffeine and chocolate are allowed now!).
The scan itself takes about 20 minutes with a gamma camera. You will lie flat on a bed while two detectors rotate around your chest. Metal objects should be removed from the chest area.
After the Scan and Risks
You can return to normal activities immediately. To help clear the tracer, drink extra fluids and practice good hygiene (flush twice, wash hands). You may be contacted within 2 weeks if a follow-up “rest” scan is required.
Risks: Side effects (feeling hot/tired) are usually mild and pass within 30 minutes. Radiation risks are very low and significantly outweighed by the diagnostic benefits.
Contact Information (RVI)
Nuclear Medicine Dept, Level 2 Leazes Wing, Royal Victoria Infirmary. Tel: 0191 28 24038 (Mon-Fri, 9:00am – 4:30pm). Email: nuth.nuclearmedicinervi@nhs.net