At PET CT and MRI of Miami, we offer Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) as part of our specialized nuclear cardiology services. This advanced diagnostic test evaluates the blood flow to your heart muscle, helping physicians detect coronary artery disease (CAD), assess the severity of blockages, and evaluate overall heart function.
Whether you’re experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or have risk factors for heart disease, our myocardial perfusion imaging services deliver critical information to guide diagnosis and treatment—accurately, safely, and efficiently.
What Is Myocardial Perfusion Imaging?
Myocardial Perfusion Imaging, often referred to as a nuclear stress test, uses a small amount of radioactive tracer and a gamma camera to produce images of blood flow to the heart muscle, both at rest and under stress (exercise or medication-induced).
This test provides two sets of images—rest and stress—to compare how well blood is reaching your heart during different states of activity. Areas with reduced blood flow may indicate blockages in the coronary arteries, damage from a previous heart attack, or weakened heart muscle.
Common reasons for MPI include:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Suspected or known coronary artery disease
- Abnormal EKG or stress test results
- Shortness of breath or reduced exercise tolerance
- Post-heart attack evaluation
- Monitoring effectiveness of heart treatments
Why Choose PET CT and MRI of Miami for MPI?
Our Miami facility is fully equipped with state-of-the-art nuclear imaging technology and experienced cardiac imaging specialists. We prioritize accuracy, patient comfort, and fast reporting for timely decision-making.
When you choose us for myocardial perfusion imaging, you benefit from:
- High-resolution imaging with low radiation exposure
- Experienced nuclear medicine and cardiology staff
- Rapid image acquisition and interpretation
- Safe pharmacologic stress testing for patients unable to exercise
- Personalized care in a patient-friendly setting
We follow the latest guidelines from the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) to ensure the highest standard of diagnostic quality.
What to Expect During Your Myocardial Perfusion Scan
The test typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the protocol used. Here’s what you can expect:
- Radiotracer Injection – A small amount of radiotracer will be injected into your bloodstream. This allows the gamma camera to detect blood flow patterns in your heart.
- Resting Images – You’ll lie on a table while the gamma camera captures detailed images of your heart at rest.
- Stress Portion – You will either walk on a treadmill or receive medication (such as adenosine, regadenoson, or dobutamine) to simulate the effects of exercise on the heart. Once your heart reaches the target stress level, a second radiotracer dose is administered.
- Stress Imaging – The gamma camera captures images of your heart under stress. Comparing these to the resting images reveals areas of reduced blood flow.
Throughout the process, our technologists and medical staff will closely monitor your vitals and ensure your comfort and safety.
Preparing for Your MPI Appointment
To ensure the most accurate results, follow these guidelines:
- Avoid caffeine, theophylline, and certain medications for 24–48 hours before the test (as directed by your physician).
- Do not eat or drink anything for at least 4 hours before your appointment.
- Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes if you’re undergoing an exercise stress test.
- Bring a list of current medications and inform staff of any medical conditions or allergies.
Our team will provide complete instructions before your visit.
Schedule Your Myocardial Perfusion Imaging in Miami
If you’re at risk for heart disease or need further cardiac evaluation, myocardial perfusion imaging can be a vital tool for your healthcare provider. At PET CT and MRI of Miami, we deliver accurate, timely results with the compassionate care you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule your MPI or to speak with a member of our team. We’re here to support your heart health with precision imaging and patient-first care.
Call Today and Schedule a Consultation
Don’t wait any longer. Contact us today to set you your appointment. Our medical professionals are ready to assist you.