MPI

Preparation for Stress MPI SCAN?

You will need to avoid caffeine for 24 hours before the test. This includes:

• Tea and coffee
• All sodas, even ones that are labeled caffeine-free
• Chocolates, and certain pain relievers that contain caffeine

Many medicines can interfere with blood test results.

• Your provider will tell you if you need to stop taking any medicines before you have this test.
• DO NOT stop or change your medicines without talking to your doctor first.

This test is done at a hospital or health care provider’s office. It is done in stages:

• A radioactive substance, such as thallium or sestamibi, will be injected into one of your veins.
• You will lie down and wait for between 15 and 45 minutes and may be asked to eat some food.
• A special camera will scan your heart and create pictures to show how the substance has traveled through your blood and into your heart.

Most people will then walk on a treadmill:

• After the treadmill starts moving slowly, you will be asked to walk faster and on an incline.
• If you are not able to exercise, you may be given a medicine called a vasodilator (such as adenosine). This drug widens (dilates) your heart arteries.
• In other cases, you may get a medicine (dobutamine) that will make your heart beat faster and harder, similar to when you exercise.

Your Blood Pressure and ECG will be monitored throughout the test.

When your heart is working as hard as it can, a radioactive substance is again injected into one of your veins.

• You will wait for another 15 to 45 minutes interval, in which you may be asked to eat food.
• Again, the special camera will scan your heart and create pictures.
• You may be allowed to get up from the table or chair and have a snack or drink.