Nuclear ventriculography (MUGA or RNV)

Alternative names:

cardiac blood pooling imaging; MUGA; nuclear heart scan; radionuclide ventriculography; RNV

What the risks are:

People receiving nuclear scans are exposed to ionizing radiation and the amount of exposure varies with the test. However, the effects are cumulative, and the potential for health hazard caused by radiation is greater in the very young and very old. The potential benefit of the test must be weighed against the risk. These tests are not performed in pregnant women. There is minimal risk associated with the intravenous catheter.

Special considerations:

Not applicable.