Nuclear ventriculography (MUGA or RNV)
Alternative names:
cardiac blood pooling imaging; MUGA; nuclear heart scan; radionuclide ventriculography; RNV
How the test is performed:
A radioactive isotope is injected into your vein. The radioactive isotope attaches to red blood cells and passes through the heart in the circulation. The radioactive isotope can be traced through the heart using special cameras or scanners. The images may be synchronized with an electrocardiogram. The test is often given at rest then repeated with exercise.
How to prepare for the test:
If exercise testing is to be done, you may not have food and beverages containing caffeine or alcohol for 3 hours before the test. Wear comfortable shoes, socks, and clothing that permits exercise.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How the test will feel:
Electrodes may be placed on your chest. An intravenous catheter 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:
The test may be performed to detect a heart attack, to evaluate those at risk of coronary artery disease without invasive testing (coronary angiography and heart catheterization), and to evaluate heart wall motion and pumping function of the heart.
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