Dynamic

Dynamic exercise is the modality of choice in myocardial perfusion imaging as image quality is usually superior and addition information is acquired about the patient general fitness.

Dynamic exercise is the modality of choice in myocardial perfusion imaging as image quality is usually superior and addition information is acquired about the patient general fitness.

The two common forms of exercise are treadmill and bicycle. 

Patients are advised to stop medication that may interfere with heart rate response during exercise e.g. beta blockers.

Treadmill exercise is usually performed using the Bruce protocol where speed and elevation of the treadmill are increased at 3 minute intervals.

Bicycle exercise is an alternative. A typical protocol will involve the patient pedalling at a constant 50rpm with the workload increasing in steps of 25W every 3 minutes.

Blood pressure and 12 ECG are monitored during the stress test and in the recovery phase.

The aim is to achieve at least 85% of the target heart rate (220 minus patient’s age). Although the test may be terminated earlier if there are symptoms or changes in blood pressure / ECG.

The radioisotope is injected at peak stress and exercise is carried on for at least another 1 minute post tracer injection.

Page last edited: 01 November 2010