Nuclear Stress Test

Imaging the heart: What you need to know

What is a Nuclear Stress Test?

Nuclear Stress Test (Cardiac SPECT) is a test used to detect heart disease and identify blockages in the coronary arteries (coronary artery disease).

A small dose of radioactive material can be used to track blood flow to the heart muscle:

  • To determine if coronary artery disease is present and if further studies and/or treatment are required
  • To evaluate progress following a major cardiac event (heart attack, heart surgery)
  • To evaluate whether a blockage found during an angiogram requires angioplasty
  • To follow the progress of documented coronary artery disease

Prior to your test:

  • Do not take any caffeinated or decaffeinated beverages or food at least 24 hours prior to your test (i.e. NO coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, energy drinks or headache-specific medications starting the day before your test).
  • Do not eat or drink after midnight or within 6 hours before your test; except water, juice or milk for taking medications.
  • Continue all your medications as prescribed unless otherwise instructed by your physician or nurse.

Nuclear Stress Test Locations in Houston, TX

Texas Medical Center

6410 Fannin St, Ste 600
Houston, TX 77030-5206

Bellaire

6700 West Loop S, Ste 540
Bellaire, TX 77401

Bayshore MS / Clearlake

11476 Space Center Blvd
Houston, TX 77059-3656

If you must cancel or reschedule, please do so at least 24 hours before your appointment.

SPECT Scan FAQ and Information:

  • A cardiac Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) scan is a non-invasive procedure that can be used to accurately identify areas of abnormal myocardial perfusion, determine the functional capacity of your heart muscle, and separate viable (living) from non-viable (irreversibly damaged) tissue.
  • In the evaluation of myocardial perfusion, or blood flow through the coronary arteries, the SPECT scan may require both a resting test and a stress test.
  • The stress test is performed either by treadmill exercise or with medication designed to induce blood flow as if exercising, such as in cases where the patient cannot walk or run on the treadmill.
  • The cardiac SPECT scan can identify areas of the heart which do not receive adequate blood flow during stress, called ischemia, as well as find areas of irreversibly damaged heart, or scarring.