What is a Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) stress test?
This test allows the doctor to see how well blood flows to your heart. You will be given a small dose of radioactive material through an IV. This material will collect in your heart and show us if your heart is getting enough blood supply from the coronary arteries when at rest and under stress.
To make an appointment for a Cardiac Diagnostic Test, call
(815) 759.4050.
Two sets of images will be taken, one while you are at rest and one after your heart has been stressed through exercise on a treadmill. The images will then be compared by the radiologist. The results will help your doctor decide what treatment is best for you.
The radioactive material does not have any side effects. It is not a dye or medicine. It has the same amount of radioactivity as other X-ray procedures.
How is this procedure performed?
The MPI stress test is a two-part test. One part is done after exercising and the other part is done while you are resting. During the stress test, EKG electrodes will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rate and rhythm. Our technicians will also monitor your blood pressure.
A small IV catheter will be inserted into your arm before you start to exercise.The treadmill starts slowly with a small hill. Every three minutes the hill will go up and the speed will increase. When your target heart rate is reached or you become very tired, a technologist will administer a small dose of radioactive imaging material and you will remain on the treadmill at least one more minute. You will then rest for at least six minutes.
After you exercise, you will lie down on an imaging table and a scan will be taken of your heart. The scan takes 15 minutes. The machine is open and staff will be with you in the room. You will need to lie still, but you may breathe normally and talk as necessary.
How should I prepare for the MPI stress test?
- Wear comfortable clothing and supportive shoes such as athletic or gym shoes.
- Eat a light meal six hours prior to your stress test appointment.
- Do not drink anything with caffeine or decaffeinated coffee, tea, soda or chocolate the day of the test.
- Do not smoke the day of the test.
- Do not apply lotions or powders to your skin. You may wear underarm deodorant.
- Talk to your doctor or care provider about which of your medicines you should take before the exam. Do not take Excedrin, Fiorinal, Fioricet or any other medicines containing caffeine.
- Bring a list of your current medications with you.
- Arrive 30 to 45 minutes prior to the test in the Heart Center.
- Please allow 60 to 90 minutes for your test and imaging. You may be asked to return the next day for the resting portion of your test as determined by the radiologist reading the images of your heart. Please allow one hour the next day.
What should I tell the doctor or nurse before the test?
- If you are pregnant or breast feeding
- If you have any questions or concerns
Call your doctor if you have:
- Any new or unrelieved chest pain
- Any new or unrelieved problems breathing
- Any new problems or concerns