What is a multiple-gated acquisition (muga) scan?
Definition The multiple-gated acquisition (MUGA) scan is a non-invasive nuclear test that uses a radioactive isotope called technetium to evaluate the functioning of the heart’s ventricles. Purpose The MUGA scan is performed to determine if the heart’s left and right ventricles are functioning properly and to diagnose abnormalities in the heart wall. It can be ordered in the following patients: • With known or suspected coronary artery disease, to diagnose the disease and predict outcomes • With lesions in their heart valves • Who have recently had a heart attack, to assess damage to heart tissue and predict the likelihood of future cardiac events • With congestive heart failure • Who have undergone percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, or medical therapy, to assess the efficacy of the treatment • With low cardiac output after open-heart surgery • Who are undergoing chemotherapy. Precautions Pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding
