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Cardiac FDG Viability:
Positron emission tomography (PET) cardiology viability imaging is a type of test that measures the way the heart uses glucose - a type of sugar that all cells in the body use for energy. Cells that have been damaged or killed by heart disease or a heart attack will use little or no glucose. Healthy cells and cells that are recovering from injury will use more glucose.
Uses:
To confirm heart damage indicated by other tests
To measure how much heart tissue has been damaged by a heart attack or heart disease
To tell whether a patient may need angiography, cardiac bypass surgery, a heart transplant, or other procedures
Preparation:
You will be required to fast 6 hours prior to the procedure: no food or drinks
Take daily medications with necessary water 6 hours prior to visit.
Avoid strenuous exercise the day before the exam
Remove all jewelry and hairpins.
Upon arrival a United Radiology technologist will review your medical record and answer any questions you have.
We will check your blood sugar level. Please make sure to advise our staff at the time of scheduling if you are diabetic.
An imaging radiotracer called FDG (Flurodeoxglucose) is injected into the vein.
A brief resting period in a quiet and comfortable environment is provided and required before the imaging begins. This resting period is necessary so that the FDG can be distributed to the heart.
Bring your doctors order, insurance co-payment, any prior imaging films and photo identification.
Wear comfortable clothing.
Diabetic Preparation:
You will be asked to fast 4 hours prior to the procedure
Let our staff know you are diabetic so we can schedule you first thing in the morning
Bring your insulin with you
We will check your glucose level prior to the exam to insure that it does not interfere with the test
How Long is the Exam?:
The actual scan takes only 15-30 minutes where you are placed lying down on a table in a comfortable , non-claustrophobic environment. The entire procedure is around 2 1/2 hours.
After the Exam:
You should experience no discomfort and return immediately to daily activities. Consider bringing food or beverage for yourself after your scan.
Exam Results:
The nuclear technologist processes the study. A physician experienced in the interpretation of cardiac studies reads the test. The report is sent to the referring physician who will contact the patient.
Insurance Coverage:
The procedure is covered by most insurance with proper indications and supporting clinicals. Please contact our customer service for a complete list of insurance companies at 301-441-9696.
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