Description
Why It’s Done
This dual-purpose scan is particularly useful in patients with:
• Suspected or known coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Heart failure or low ejection fraction
• History of myocardial infarction (heart attack)
• Unclear symptoms or equivocal stress test results
• Planning for revascularization procedures like angioplasty or bypass surgery
The test provides crucial information:
• Perfusion analysis shows which parts of the heart muscle are receiving adequate blood supply.
• Viability analysis identifies areas that are not functioning well but are still alive and could recover with improved blood flow.
This helps physicians decide whether revascularization is likely to benefit the patient and improve heart function.
Preparation
1. Fasting:
• No food or drink (except water) for 4–6 hours prior to the test.
• Some centers may advise a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet the day before the test to enhance the accuracy of the FDG viability scan.
2. Blood Sugar Control:
• Diabetic patients should speak with their healthcare provider about managing insulin or oral medications on the day of the test.
• Blood glucose should ideally be below 180 mg/dL at the time of the scan, as high sugar levels can interfere with the FDG uptake.
3. Medications:
• Continue taking prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise.
• Bring a complete list of current medications.
4. Avoid Caffeine and Tobacco:
• Avoid caffeine (tea, coffee, energy drinks, chocolates) and tobacco for at least 12 hours before the test, as these can affect the results.
5. Hydration:
• Drink plenty of water unless fasting is required.
• Good hydration helps flush out the radioactive tracer after the test.
6. Clothing and Comfort:
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.
• You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
7. Inform Your Healthcare Provider If:
• You are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
• You have a history of allergic reactions to contrast agents or radiotracers
• You have kidney disease or diabetes
