MUGA Scan Cost

MUGA is a short form for Multiple-Gated Acquisition. It is a scanning modality for assessing the functioning of heart. The pumping ability of heart is measured through this test. This scan helps the doctor know how healthy your heart muscles are. It is helpful in investigating causes behind difficulty in breathing, chest pain, fatigue and dizziness. MUGA scan shows pumping ability of lower ventricles and whether they are affected because of chemotherapy. It is also useful for people who have survived cancer through medication and therapy. Potential side effects to heart in the coming years are detected through MUGA.

MUGA scan is usually performed in a hospital setting. This test takes anything between 1-2 hours to be completed. Firstly, electrodes are placed on your legs, arms and chest. An ECG machine is simultaneously attached to the placed electrodes for recording your heartbeats. A radioactive substance is passed into the body through an intravenous line. A camera takes pictures of the heart while the radioactive substance attaches with the red blood cells in your body. This was about a "resting scan."

An "exercise scan" entails walking on a treadmill before you are made to lie down for the camera to take pictures of your heart's activity. Some centers or hospitals offer testing through simultaneous cycling and taking pictures. Meaning, the pictures will be taken as you are cycling.

Pregnant women or new-mothers are advised not to undergo this test. Drinking plenty of water in the course of the day post this test is important for flushing out radioactive material from your system. Also, since the test is an outpatient one, you can easily return to your routine activities immediately after it.

The test results can help the doctor chalk out further line of treatment therapy. Abnormal results signify heart diseases like arterial blockages, heart valve disease or any other cardiac issue lurking in the body.