MUGA (Multigated Acquisition) Scan is a specialized diagnostic procedure which uses ionizing radiation check the activity of the heart chambers particularly the ventricles (the lower chambers of the heart). It is known to all that the heart is made up of four chambers and the heart functions by the filling and pumping of blood in these chambers.
The MUGA scan is a specialized test which checks the lower chambers of the heart, their pumping action and any abnormality. The scan is also called as Nuclear heart scan, cardiac blood pooling imaging, radionucleotide ventriculography and nuclear ventriculography.
When is a MUGA scan advised ?
A MUGA Scan is advised in individuals who have received certain amount of chemotherapy sessions which can affect the activity of the heart. Certain chemotherapeutic agents can cause cardiac damage. It is also advised in cancer patients who received radiation therapy to the upper body region or who have had bone marrow transplant.
When is a MUGA scan not advised ?
A MUGA Scan is not advised in women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding as it may affect the growing fetus. It is also not advised in individuals who are advised to stay away from any radiation exposure.
Who performs a MUGA scan ?
A MUGA Scan is performed by a radiologist/radionucleotide specialist with a cardiologist and trained technicians. This procedure is performed in a radiology laboratory.
How to prepare for a MUGA scan ?
Not much preparation is required for a MUGA scan. The test is advised by your treating doctor or cardiologist if you have received any cancer treatment and you might be at a risk of cardiac ailments.
You radiologist will do a complete physical examination, medication review and will then advise for a MUGA Scan. You will be explained the risks, benefits and outcomes of the procedure in detail. It is advised that you ask your treating doctor about the details of the procedure before going ahead for the test.
You will be asked to not to eat or drink anything 4-6 hours before the test. You will be asked to wear loose clothing for the test and once in the laboratory you will be asked to change into the hospital gown.
What happens during the MUGA scan ?
Once you have changed into the hospital gown you will be taken to the examination room. You will be made to lie/or sit on the examination table and electrodes will be stick on to your chest to monitor your heart rate during the procedure. Occasionally your blood pressure may also be monitored during the test. An intravenous line will be started on your arm to deliver some medications and a tracer dye for the scan. The dye binds to your red blood cells and reaches the heart to check the activity and abnormality if any. Once the dye is delivered a special camera called as a gamma camera will be used to take pictures of your heart in different views. You might be asked to exercise for a few minutes to check the activity of your heart during stress. The scan may take 1-3 hours to complete and you might be allowed to go home after the test.
The test results up to 50 % and higher pumping ability of the heart are considered to be normal. An abnormal test may relate to blockage in any artery or weakened activity of the heart’s chambers so your treatment will be modified accordingly.
What are the risks and complications of MUGA scan ?
The MUGA scan is safe diagnostic procedure, but one can be allergic to the dye or bleeding, infection or clotting can occur at the site of injection.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
