A MUGA scan evaluates the pumping function of the heart.
How should I prepare for my exam?
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.
How long will my exam take?
A MUGA scan will take approximately one hour.
What happens during my exam?
A nuclear medicine technologist will give you two injections 30 minutes apart. These injections “tag” your red blood cells so they can be detected by the nuclear medicine camera. Three electrodes (small round sticky patches) will be attached to your chest and to a monitor 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 for the next 30 minutes and will analyze the amount of “tagged” red blood cells pumped out of the heart with each heartbeat.
What happens after my exam?
Your images will be interpreted by one of our board-certified radiologists. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider who will then contact you to discuss the results.
Unless directed otherwise, you may drive, resume your normal diet, exercise and take all prescribed medications after your appointment.
