Thallium
Exercise Tolerance Test
Thallium
Exercise Tolerance Test
A Thallium exercise tolerance test (Thallium stress test) is a diagnostic exam used to evaluate the blood flow to the heart muscle.What to expect before the test
A technician will prepare your chest for electrode placement (similar to having an electrocardiogram done) and attach the monitoring equipment. Preliminary electrocardiograms (EKGs) and blood pressure readings will also be done.You will be interviewed by a registered nurse (RN) for information about your health history and any medications that you are currently taking. The test procedure will be explained and a brief demonstration provided. You will have a chance to ask any questions you may have.
After an intravenous (IV) line is inserted in your arm, the doctor will come and perform the test.
What to expect during the test
You will exercise by walking on a treadmill that will move very slowly at first, then gradually increase in speed and elevation. While you are walking on the treadmill, your heart rate, heart rhythm, blood pressure and EKG will be monitored closely by the doctor, nurse and technician.The amount of time you will walk on the treadmill varies from person to person, but averages 6-12 minutes. If at any time during the test you should feel chest discomfort, breathing difficulty, dizziness, weakness, or any other discomfort, you should tell the staff.
A radioactive liquid called Thallium will be injected through the IV line approximately 1 minute before the end of the exercise. The Thallium is carried to the heart by the bloodstream.
After the doctor determines that the exercise portion of the test is completed, you will be assisted to a wheelchair. You will be transported to the Nuclear Medicine Department, where you will be asked to lie flat on a narrow table with your arms resting over your head.
The technologist will take pictures, called imaging, with a special camera that can measure the uptake of the Thallium as it flows to the heart. During this procedure, the camera moves slowly around your chest in an arc-like fashion for 20 minutes.
Your heart rate, heart rhythm, and blood pressure will continue to be monitored throughout the test.
What to expect after the test
After the first set of images has been taken, the IV line will be removed. Written instructions will be given and explained.The test requires that you return a few hours later for an additional (booster dose) of Thallium by direct injection and another 20 minutes of imaging.
Instructions
Wear proper clothing
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Slacks or shorts may be worn.
- Flat comfortable shoes like sneakers or rubber-soled oxfords.
- No nylons.
- No slippers, boots, high heels, or bare feet.
- No smoking 6 hours before the test. (Nicotine increases the heart rate.)
Do not eat or drink for 6 hours before the test.
Bring a list of your medications.Your physician may decide to temporarily discontinue certain heart medications prior to the test. Please check with your physician.
If you have any questions regarding any of the above information, please call your doctor, or the Nuclear Medicine Department at 937-7447.
