PY Test

What is the purpose of this test?
The purpose of a PY test is to detect the presence of bacteria that can cause ulcers.

How is the PY test performed?
You will sit in a chair. You will be asked to swallow a capsule that contains a small amount of radioactive material. After 10 minutes you will be asked to blow into a balloon. You should plan for your test to take about 15 minutes in all.

How do I prepare for this test?
You may not eat anything for six hours before the test. Check with your doctors about any medications you may be taking.

How will I feel after I have a PY test?
The radioactive capsule will have no effect on how you feel.

How soon will my doctor get the results?
After the procedure is complete, a nuclear medicine physician will study the pictures along with your medical history to make an assessment of what the images show. He will then dictate a report that will be forwarded to your physician within five to seven business days. If your doctor needs the results sooner, he/she may contact the nuclear medicine physician on the day of the exam.

How do I make an appointment?
Your doctor will write an order or prescription for the test. The doctor will either give you the order or have it faxed to the hospital. You may then schedule your appointment by calling the Nuclear Medicine Department at 847-723-5050.

If I still have questions, who should I call?
For more information about the procedure, please call the Nuclear Medicine Department at 847-723-5050.