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Alternative names Return to top
RNV; Cardiac blood pooling imaging; Nuclear heart scan; Radionuclide ventriculography; MUGADefinition Return to top
Nuclear ventriculography (MUGA or RNV) is a test that uses radioactive tracers to make heart chambers and blood vessels visible. The procedure is non-invasive. The heart structures are not touched by instruments.How the test is performed Return to top
A radioactive isotope is injected into your vein. Commonly used isotopes include technetium and thallium. Radioactive isotopes attach to red blood cells and pass through the heart in the circulating blood. The radioactive isotope can be traced through the heart using special cameras or scanners. The images may be synchronized with an electrocardiogram.
You will be tested when you are resting, then tested again with exercise or after administering certain medications.
How to prepare for the test Return to top
You may be required to abstain from food or beverages containing caffeine or alcohol for several hours before the test.How the test will feel Return to top
Electrodes may be placed on your chest. An intravenous line will be placed in your arm to inject the radioactive isotope. A camera or scanner will be placed over the chest area to process the images. The scan may be repeated during exercise on a treadmill or stationary bicycle.Why the test is performed Return to top
The test is performed when it is important to very accurately measure the pumping function of the heart.Normal Values Return to top
Normal results indicate normal heart function, or a normal cardiac response to exercise.What abnormal results mean Return to top
Abnormal results may indicate a myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, or other cardiac disorders.What the risks are Return to top
Nuclear imaging tests carry a very low risk of complications. Exposure to radio tracers can be a concern for the nuclear lab staff, but not for patients undergoing an occasional nuclear imaging test. Update Date: 7/18/2003 Updated by: Elena Sgarbossa, M. D., Department of Cardiology, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |