What does a Nuclear Stress Treadmill Test Involve?
When you first come in, a brief medical history will be taken by a technologist or nurse. An intravenous line (IV) will be started. A radioactive dose may be injected and rest images may be done if you having a dual isotope test or a one day Sestamibi test. These images take about 15-20 minutes using a specialized gamma camera. A nurse will then put on EKG leads on your chest to monitor your heart. You will then walk on the treadmill using a standard exercise protocol. Your blood pressure, EKG rhythm and any symptoms you may have will be monitored by the nurse and a cardiologist. When you reach a certain target heart rate or when the cardiologist gives the order, the radioactive agent 99mTc Sestamibi will be injected into the intravenous line and flushed with saline. You will need to continue to walk on the treadmill for another minute to circulate the radioactive material. You will then receive some oral fluids to ensure optimal images. The stress images will be done with the gamma ca
