Gold Standard in Cardiac Imaging
Cardiac PET/CT offers higher accuracy and lower radiation than many traditional stress tests and is considered the gold standard for cardiac perfusion imaging.
Our practice, backed by the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) official endorsement, offers PET/CT imaging as the preferred imaging modality for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). PET/CT combines the power of PET imaging with a CT scan to create a precise, 3‑D picture of your heart and blood flow.
This combination allows your provider to:
- Identify blockages or low‑blood‑flow areas
- Assess heart muscle health
- Plan the safest and most effective treatment
Because PET and CT images are overlaid, PET/CT offers some of the most accurate heart imaging available—all in one outpatient visit.
Important Preparation: What to Expect
Most visits take about 1–1.5 hours. Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled test. PET/CT is a non-invasive test. You will be awake and normal activity usually resume afterwards.
Take these important steps to prepare for a PET/CT scan.
A PET or PET/CT scan is a simple, non-invasive outpatient test that helps your care team see how well your heart is working.
It’s very important to avoid Caffeine 24-48 Hours prior to the test or it will be rescheduled.
Please avoid food and beverages 4 hours prior.
WHAT TO WEAR
Comfortable two-piece outfit.
Avoid metal zippers or buttons.
ARRIVAL
Arrive 30 minutes early for
check-in. The entire experience may take up to 90 minutes.
Do not take the following
medications 48hrs before:
• Aggrenox
• Persantine
• Theophylline
• Theo-Dur
• Dipyridamole
• Aminophylline
BRING WITH YOU
– Medication list
– Inhalers (if used)
– Spinal Stimulator Remotes
– Diabetes medications
(bring – do not take unless instructed)
A small amount of tracer (a safe, low‑dose substance) is given through an IV. This helps show how your heart uses blood and oxygen.
Again:
It’s very important to avoid Caffeine 24-48 Hours prior to the test or it will be rescheduled. This includes chocolate and decaf coffee/tea.
Please avoid food and beverages 4 hours prior to your test.
WHAT TO WEAR
Comfortable two-piece outfit.
Avoid metal zippers or buttons.
ARRIVAL
Arrive 30 minutes early for
check-in. The entire experience may take up to 90 minutes.
Do not take the following
medications 48hrs before:
• Aggrenox
• Persantine
• Theophylline
• Theo-Dur
• Dipyridamole
• Aminophylline
BRING WITH YOU
– Medication list
– Inhalers (if used)
– Spinal Stimulator Remotes
– Diabetes medications
(bring – do not take unless instructed)
1. A nurse will review your medications & history
2. An IV will be placed in your arm or hand
3. Small patches will monitor your heart
4. You will lie comfortably on a padded table
5. Medication will safely simulate a heart rate at gentle exercise
6. Images will be taken of your heart at rest and stress (~20 minutes)
How it Works:
1. A small amount of radiotracer (not dye) is used to capture detailed images of blood flow to your heart.
2. Medication called Lexiscan safely simulates exercise so your doctor can compare images of your heart at rest and stress.
3. Your heart rhythm, blood pressure, and oxygen will be monitored throughout the test.
You can return to normal activities right away. Your cardiologist will review the images and explain what they show about your heart’s health.