A MUGA scan evaluates the overall ability of the heart to pump blood.
The only potential concern is exposure to a very small dose of radiation.
The tracer is flushed out of the body by the kidneys within 24 hours.
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That said, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not undergo a MUGA scan.
Although the radiation dose is minimal, it may enough to harm a developing baby or nursing infant.
Before the Test
Timing
A MUGA scan typically takes one to two hours to complete.
When planning your day, allow enough time to travel to the facility where the test will be performed.
Ask your healthcare provider how much time you realistically will need to block off for your MUGA scan.
Location
The MUGA scan is an outpatient test.
It is typically performed in a hospital or clinic.
Pre-Test
Before a resting MUGA scan, you may be asked to put on a hospital gown.
If you have chest hair, it may need to be shaved where the electrodes will be positioned.
The electrodes are attached to anelectrocardiographmonitor (EKG) that charts the hearts electrical activity during the test.
The Technetium 99 will attach to red blood cells and thereby circulate within your bloodstream.
Your healthcare provider will receive a written report later and go over it at your next scheduled appointment.
There, you will learn what the next steps are for your care.
Your results will usually be shown as a percentage.
A normal ejection fraction is between 50% and 70%.
People who have received certain chemotherapy agents would also benefit from MUGA monitoring.
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