A cardiac pet stress test is a non-invasive imaging test that uses a radioactive tracer to evaluate blood flow to the heart muscle. It is performed to detect coronary artery disease (CAD), which is a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.

What is a Cardiac Pet Stress Test?

How is a Cardiac Pet Stress Test Performed?

1. Before the test, you will be asked to fast for several hours. You may also be asked to stop taking certain medications that can interfere with the test results.

2. When you arrive at the hospital or imaging center, you will be given a small amount of radioactive tracer through an IV line in your arm.

3. You will then be asked to exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike. The exercise will increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which will cause the radioactive tracer to flow more quickly through your heart.

4. While you are exercising, images of your heart will be taken using a special camera. These images will show how well blood is flowing to different parts of your heart.

5. After you have finished exercising, you will be asked to rest for a few minutes. More images of your heart will then be taken.

What are the Risks of a Cardiac Pet Stress Test?

1. The risks of a cardiac pet stress test are very low. However, there is a small risk of allergic reaction to the radioactive tracer.

2. There is also a small risk of developing chest pain, shortness of breath, or other symptoms during the exercise portion of the test. If this happens, the test will be stopped immediately.

What are the Benefits of a Cardiac Pet Stress Test?

1. A cardiac pet stress test can help to diagnose CAD at an early stage, before you develop symptoms. This can help to prevent a heart attack or other serious complications.

2. A cardiac pet stress test can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for CAD. If your symptoms improve after treatment, your doctor may order a cardiac pet stress test to see if your heart is getting enough blood flow.