Dobutamine Cardiolite Stress Test

Your doctor has recommended that you have a dobutamine cardiolite stress test to better evaluate the condition of your heart. Results from this procedure will help your doctor determine whether your coronary arteries have become narrowed or blocked as a result of coronary artery disease and decide the best course of treatment for you.

The information provided below is intended to answer some of the questions you may have about the test. Please contact your doctor to discuss anything that you don't understand or would like more information about.

Your Heart and Coronary Artery Disease
To better understand why your doctor has recommended the dobutamine cardiolite stress test, it is important to understand something about your heart and the arteries that supply it with oxygen.

Your heart is an amazing pumping machine that is responsible for supplying all the organs of your body with blood that contains oxygen and other life-giving nutrients they need to stay healthy. To do its job, your heart needs to receive a sufficient blood and oxygen supply through a special network of blood vessels called the coronary arteries.

The inner walls of the coronary arteries are normally smooth, allowing blood to flow through them easily. Over time, however, a condition called coronary artery disease can develop in which fats and other materials carried in the bloodstream begin to adhere to the artery walls. When these materials build up, they become a substance called plaque which narrows or blocks the arteries, restricting blood flow. As a result, the heart may not receive the oxygen it needs to perform the work it is being called upon to do.

Why do I need a dobutamine cardiolite stress test?
A dobutamine cardiolite stress test provides information about how much blood your heart pumps and helps your doctor determine whether your coronary arteries have become narrowed or blocked as a result of coronary artery disease. Results from the test will assist your doctor in deciding what treatment is best for you.

How do I prepare for the test?

• Do not use nicotine products or consume caffeine 4 hours prior to the test.
• Do not eat for 4 hours before the test. Diabetics may have clear liquids.
• Continue taking your medications with sips of water.
• Wear a comfortable two-piece outfit.
• Bring your doctor's order with you.
• Bring a list of your medications with you.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the test a medication called Atropine may be used during the test. This medication can make eyes sensitive to bright sunlight.

What will happen on the day of my test?
The dobutamine cardiolite stress test is a two-day, two-part test. Each part of the exam takes approximately 2 ½ hours to complete.

The first and most important thing to remember while undergoing a dobutamine cardiolite stress test is that the cardiologist who is performing the test is also there to answer any questions you may have. A registered nurse, nuclear medicine technologist and a technologist will also be present.

During the test, the physician and technologist will monitor your heart using a machine called an electrocardiograph. Electrodes connected to the electrocardiograph machine will be placed on your chest. Your blood pressure will also be monitored.

An intravenous line (IV) will be placed in your arm. Dobutamine and cardiolite will be given directly through the IV line. The Dobutamine will be administered in increasing dosages until a desired heart rate is achieved (similar to how exercise increases your heart rate). Most patients just feel their hearts beating faster. However, if you experience any unusual sensations during the test, it is important to report them to the doctor.

The nuclear medicine technologist will then administer cardiolite. A special camera that is able to detect cardiolite will be placed close to your chest. This camera will take images of the cardiolite as it is carried to your heart through the coronary arteries.

Once the images have been taken, you may leave the Nuclear Medicine Department. The nuclear medicine technologist will inform you of the day and time to return for another set of pictures.

When you return for the second part of the test, you will receive an IV injection of cardiolite and wait approximately 45 minutes to an hour. You will then be asked to lie on a table with your left arm over your head. A camera will be lowered to take pictures of your heart at rest.

By comparing the second set of pictures with those taken the day before, the doctor will be better able to evaluate your condition. Test results will be provided to your physician within 5 to 7 work days.

Reducing your Risk for Heart Disease

• Don't smoke
• Have your blood pressure checked regularly
• Reduce your intake of fats and cholesterol
• Maintain your ideal weight
• Exercise regularly according to your physician's guidelines

Inquiries
Our goal is to provide you with excellent care. If you have any questions or comments, please contact:

Jan Duval, RN
Coordinator, Heart Station
847-723-5480