Dynamic studies measure the contractile (pumping) function of the heart muscle. The test goes under several different names and abbreviations including radionuclide ventriculogram (RVG) or MUGA scan. In this test a small dose of isotope tracer is injected into the bloodstream, followed by imaging of the heart to demonstrate the isotope particles within the chambers of the heart. The dose of isotope is sufficiently small such that a number of cardiac cycles must be measured to have a sufficient quantity of isotope recognized by the camera. A good study will give an accurate picture of the chambers of the heart and the contraction of the ventricles, especially that of the left ventricle. Accordingly, cardiac enlargement, hypertrophy (thickening), pumping function (ejection fraction, EF) and areas of previous myocardial infarction can be well identified.
The test is non-invasive and carries no risk to the patient whatsoever. The results of this test will usually not be available immediately and will be discussed with you at a subsequent office visit by your physician.