What is a PET Stress Test?
A nuclear PET stress test is a type of cardiac stress test that uses positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to visualize blood flow to the heart muscle. It involves injecting a radioactive tracer like rubidium-82 into the bloodstream while the heart is stressed using a medication called Lexiscan to increase blood flow to the heart. The PET scan then creates 3D images of the heart showing where the tracer, and therefore blood flow, is decreased or blocked. This allows doctors to pinpoint narrowings or blockages in the coronary arteries that supply the heart.
People may get a nuclear PET stress test rather than other options, like a treadmill stress test or stress echocardiogram, for a few key reasons. PET provides very detailed 3D images of the heart compared to planar nuclear imaging or ultrasound. It can accurately detect smaller blockages and milder limitations in blood flow. Additionally, PET stress tests are also better for patients who are unable to exercise enough for other stress modalities.
What to Expect During a PET Stress Test
Before The Procedure
In preparation for a nuclear PET stress test:
- Do not eat or drink anything for at least six (6) hours prior to the test.
- No caffeine twelve (12) hours before the test.
- Do not smoke for at least six (6) hours prior to the test.
- Do not take any Beta Blockers, Nitrates, or Erectile Dysfunction medication one day (24 hours) before the scan unless otherwise instructed.
- If you have any questions regarding other medications, please contact our office.
Before the scan, patients will first have an IV line placed, through which a radioactive tracer like rubidium-82 is injected.
During The Procedure
During the test, patients lie inside the PET scanner, where images of the radiotracer traveling to the heart are taken. Multiple sets of images are taken — first at rest, then again after the Lexiscan injection to compare blood flow and assess the condition of the arteries. The Lexiscan dilates arteries in the heart and simulates exercise, negating the need to walk on a treadmill.
After The Procedure
After the test, patients can resume normal diet and medications. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the radioactive tracer from the body quicker through urination. Patients may feel fatigued or have chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or ECG changes during the test, but these typically resolve within a few hours. Once the PET images are processed, the nuclear medicine physician analyzes them for any areas of decreased blood flow indicating blockages. Results are shared with the referring physician and patient, along with appropriate treatment recommendations..jpg?width=762&height=700&name=CardiacPet%20(1).jpg)
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