Imaging

Imaging is a method used to evaluate the blood flow to the heart. A small amount of a radioisotope, or imaging agent, is injected into the patient’s blood stream and is absorbed into the cells of the heart. The amount of this substance that is taken up by your heart is measured by a special device called a gamma camera that rotates around your chest area and produces a scan of the heart. On the scan, the technician and your provider are able to see parts of your heart muscle that have a decreased blood supply. (Some people who have had “heart attacks” in the past may have areas of the heart muscle with no blood supply at all. This shows up on the imaging.) Based on this information and the ECG images, your provider is able to recommend further testing or care.