Nuclear Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Stress Test

To begin, our medical assistant or nuclear medicine technologist will gather your medical history, explain the test and answer any questions. At this time, you will need to sign a consent form. Then, we will place an intravenous (IV) line through a vein in your arm to inject the radioactive tracers and medication.

Next, our team will use gel to place small plastic pads on your chest. These pads connect to the electrocardiogram (EKG) monitor to measure the electrical signals from your heart. For men, we may need to shave small areas to remove chest hair to ensure the pads stick. We also will take a baseline blood pressure reading.

During the imaging session, our team will inject the radioactive tracer slowly through the IV line. You will lie flat on your back on an imaging table with your arms resting above your head.

If you develop any discomfort during the test, please tell the team immediately. Nuclear cameras will slowly move around your chest for about 20 minutes. It is very important for you to lie as still as possible during the imaging session. You may breathe normally.

After this resting-state imaging session, we will inject a second radioactive tracer and repeat the process of taking images of your heart in a state of stress after walking on a treadmill.

When you have completed the tests, we will remove the EKG pads and IV line, and you may resume your regular diet and routine. We will send a copy of the report to your referring doctor. The complete process for the nuclear PET test will take about four hours.

• Ask your doctor if you need to stop taking your medications, such as beta-blockers, before the test.
• Avoid food and drink four hours before your appointment. If you eat or drink, you will need to reschedule your test.
• Avoid caffeine, caffeinated beverages or chocolate for 24 hours before your appointment. This includes coffee, tea, cocoa, soda pop and other caffeinated drinks.
• Bring or wear loose, comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for brisk walking or jogging. Avoid heels or sandals. Avoid wearing a dress, full slip or tight jeans. Wear pants or shorts and a loose-fitting top.
• Bring a list of your current medications or bring your medications in their bottles.
• Take any medications with sips of water unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
• Talk to your doctor and reschedule your test if you are pregnant, may be pregnant or are a nursing mother.