Name of the Procedure:

Technetium Tc-99m Tetrofosmin Scan
Common names: Myocardial Perfusion Imaging, Nuclear Stress Test
Technical/Medical terms: Technetium Tc-99m Tetrofosmin, Radionuclide Imaging

Summary

A Technetium Tc-99m Tetrofosmin scan is a diagnostic imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive material to create detailed images of the heart. This helps doctors evaluate blood flow to the heart muscles during rest and stress conditions.

Purpose

This procedure primarily assesses blood flow to the heart, helping to diagnose conditions such as coronary artery disease (CAD), evaluate the severity of heart issues, and guide treatment decisions.

Indications

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Known or suspected coronary artery disease
• Unexplained fatigue
• Pre-surgical evaluation for cardiac patients

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for several hours before the test.
• Certain medications might need to be paused; consult your doctor.
• Avoid caffeine for at least 24 hours before the test.
• An initial consultation and possibly an electrocardiogram (ECG) may be required.

Procedure Description

1. Injection: A small amount of Technetium Tc-99m Tetrofosmin is injected into a vein.
2. Resting Images: Initial images are taken while the patient is at rest.
3. Stress Test: The patient undergoes a stress test, which may involve exercise on a treadmill or administration of medication to simulate exercise.
4. Post-Stress Images: Additional images are taken immediately after the stress test.
5. Analysis: The images are analyzed to compare blood flow during rest and stress.

Equipment: Gamma camera, IV injection. Anesthesia: None typically required, but sedation might be used if necessary.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes about 2-4 hours.

Setting

The procedure is usually conducted in a hospital's nuclear medicine department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Nuclear medicine physician or radiologist
• Technologist (to operate imaging equipment)
• Cardiologist (to oversee stress testing)

Risks and Complications

• Allergic reaction to the radioactive tracer (rare)
• Mild discomfort at the injection site
• Slight risk of arrhythmias or heart attack during the stress test (managed by healthcare professionals)

Benefits

• Non-invasive method to evaluate heart health
• Accurate detection and assessment of coronary artery disease
• Helps tailor appropriate treatment plans

Recovery

• Most patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Monitor the injection site for any signs of infection or adverse reactions.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results.

Alternatives

• Cardiac CT or MRI
• Echocardiography
• Angiography Each alternative has its advantages and limitations, such as varying levels of detail, invasiveness, and cost.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel:

• A cold sensation from the injection
• Fatigue or breathlessness from the stress test
• Mild discomfort from lying still for extended periods Pain management is usually not necessary, but staff will ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure.