What you need to know about Heart Care

Persantine (Dipyridamole) Nuclear Stress Test

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What is a Persantine (Dipyridamole) Nuclear Stress Test?

This is a test that can be done on patients that cannot exercise on a treadmill at all, or not adequately to achieve a desired heart rate.
Electrodes are placed on the chest to monitor and record heart rate and rhythm.
A blood pressure cuff is placed on one arm to measure blood pressure before, during, and after the test.
An I.V. line is started to administer the persantine and the nuclear isotope.
Persantine dilates the blood supply to the heart, increasing the blood flow – this is similar to what happens with exercise.
After the test portion is done, the patient goes to outpatient radiology – located on the 1st floor in the outpatient building. They have special cameras that take pictures of the circulation to the heart. The patient lies on their back with their arms over their head for 20 minutes. Two sets of these pictures are taken to show the circulation to the heart at rest, and with simulated effects of exercise. (from the persantine) The second set must sometimes be done the following day.
Possible temporary symptoms from persantine may include: headache, dizziness, queasy stomach, light-headed sensation. If your symptoms persist, a medication will be given to make them go away.
The nuclear isotope is not harmful to the patient or the heart.
The test must be ordered by a doctor, and scheduled.

Why is a Persantine Stress test Done?

When a patient is not able to exercise on a treadmill at all, or not long enough to achieve a target heart rate, this will help the doctor evaluate the patient’s cardiac condition:

What Preparation is Needed?

Nothing to eat or drink, including no medications, after midnight- the night before the test.
No caffeine containing products 24 hours before the test (coffee, tea, colas, chocolates).
Do not apply ointments, lotions, or powder to chest area. Deodorant can be used.
Notify your doctor if: you are allergic to Persantine, aminophylline, or theophylline,or if you have severe asthma or chronic lung conditions.
If you are taking theophylline, theodur, or aminophylline it must be stopped 72 hours (3 days) before the test. Speak with your doctor about this.
Speak with your doctor if you are unable to lay on a bed with your arms raised above your head for the scans.

Registration

Registration will occur in the Cardiac Health Services department. You will need to bring a picture I.D. (such as a driver’s license), insurance cards, and any paperwork from the doctor. Bring a list of the medications you take.
Plan to arrive 60 minutes before the test time, to allow for preparation.
Enter the hospital through the Outpatient Building.
Take the elevators to Cardiac Health Services department, which is located on the second floor.

If you have any questions call 245-8091 or 245-8199.