NUCLEAR MEDICINE
 
 

Nuclear LEXISCAN Stress Test Information

 

 

I.                   Preparation upon arrival in the Nuclear Medicine Department

 

1.   The test will be completely explained to you before the technologist begins.  The technologist will then ask you a few pertinent questions and look over your medication list.   If you have any questions about the exam, please feel free to ask the technologist at any time.

2.      All patients will receive an IV prior to the test.  The technologist will give medications for the test through the IV.

 

II.          Rest Imaging

 

      1.   You will receive an injection of a small amount of a radioisotope through your IV. 

            2.   This radioisotope will need to circulate for approximately 45 min – 1 hr. 

                  3.   The first set of images will then be acquired.  These images will take approximately 20-30 minutes.

 

III.       Lexiscan Stress – This medication is used for patients that are unable to walk on the treadmill or have other limiting factors as determined by their physician.  This test will be stopped if you have unusual symptoms or EKG changes.  Symptoms and side effects that can occur with Lexiscan are: nausea, headache, shortness of breath, flushing, leg heaviness, GI discomfort, and chest discomfort.

 

1.      You will be placed on EKG monitoring equipment to allow the stress personnel to monitor you during the test

2.      You will be given a Lexiscan injection through your IV, followed by a second injection of the radioisotope.

3.       After the stress portion, you will be given a caffeinated beverage to drink.  This will help alleviate any side effects you feel from the Lexiscan

 

IV.               Stress Imaging

 

1.       After the Lexiscan stress, a second set of 20-30 minute images will be acquired after a short waiting period for recovery.

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v     During and after your stress, immediately report any symptoms (chest discomfort, heart flutters, dizziness, weakness, etc.) you may have to the cardiovascular technician or nuclear medicine technologist.