Radionuclide ventriculography (sometimes known as MUGA) is a test that uses very small amounts of radioactive materials called tracers to make your heart and blood vessels visible. This test evaluates heart function
Perfusion scans will show the blood flow through the heart muscle and may detect areas of poor blood flow (ischaemia).
For both tests the tracers are injected into your vein and are tracked through the heart using special cameras or scanners. You will usually be tested when you are resting and possibly again with exercise, or after taking certain medicines. You may be asked to not take any food or drink containing caffeine or alcohol for several hours before the tests. You should take your daily medicine unless otherwise instructed.
Nuclear medicine techniques only carry a very low risk of complications, as the amount of radiation is so small.
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