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Resting Radionuclide AngiogramAngiograma con radionúclidos, en reposo

Resting Radionuclide Angiogram

What is a resting radionuclide angiogram?

Resting radionuclide angiogram (RNA) is a type of nuclear medicine procedure. This means that a tiny amount of a radioactive substance, called a tracer, is used during the scan to help show the heart’s chambers in motion. This test can tell the doctor how well the heart pumps and how much blood is pumped with each heartbeat. This is called the ejection fraction.

A radioactive tracer (usually technetium) is injected into an arm vein to “tag" blood cells so they can be tracked with a scanner as they move through the heart. A special camera (called a gamma camera) then makes recordings of the heart muscle at work, like a movie. These recordings will be matched with the electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG is a recording of the heart's electrical activity.

When the heart tissue doesn’t get enough blood, it can’t function as well as it should. Over time, the heart muscle becomes weak due to a lack of oxygen.


  • An enlargement of one or more of the heart's chambers
  • Aneurysm (a weak area in the heart muscle)
  • Toxic effects of certain medications

Why might I need a resting radionuclide angiogram?


  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue (extreme tiredness)




What are the risks of a resting radionuclide angiogram?

Only a small amount of the radioactive tracer is used. So, there is no need for precautions against radiation exposure.





  • Caffeine intake before the procedure
  • Smoking or using any form of tobacco before the procedure
  • Certain heart medications

How do I prepare for a resting radionuclide angiogram?

  • Generally, no sedation is needed. You may be told to fast (not eat or drink) for at least 3 to 4 hours before the study.
  • Tobacco use and caffeine intake may also be restricted 2 or 3 hours before testing.
  • Tell your doctor if you have a pacemaker.


What happens during a resting radionuclide angioram?


Generally, a resting RNA follows this process:

  6. The radioactive tracer will be injected into the IV to “tag" the red blood cells. You will probably not feel anything when the tracer is given.


What happens after a resting radionuclide angiogram?



The IV site will be checked for any signs of redness or swelling. If you notice any pain, redness, and/or swelling at the IV site after you go home, you should notify your doctor as this may be a sign of infection or other type of reaction.


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