Cardiac PET Scan Specialist

Naples Heart Rhythm Specialists, P.A.

Cardiology & Electrophysiology located in Naples, FL

If you’ve had a heart attack or symptoms of chronic heart disease, you may need a cardiac PET scan. Naples Heart Rhythm Specialists, P.A., in Naples, Florida, is one of the few facilities worldwide to offer on-site cardiac PET scans to accurately diagnoses your heart-related symptoms. The dedicated heart specialists also use the results of your cardiac PET scan to create just the right treatment plan for your condition. Find out more about on-site cardiac PET scan services by calling one of the offices today or by requesting an appointment online now.

Cardiac PET Scan Q & A

What is a cardiac PET scan?

Cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) is a noninvasive diagnostic heart test that uses radionuclides, which are radioactive tracers, to produce clear 3D images of the structures of your heart. 

The radionuclide tracers mix with your blood and travel into your heart muscle. A special imaging device picks up signals from the tracer and sends them to a computer. The computer converts the electronic signals into images. 

 

Why would I need a cardiac PET scan?

The heart specialists at Naples Heart Rhythm Specialists, P.A., may recommend a cardiac PET scan to diagnose a number of heart-related diseases, such as coronary artery disease or damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack. 

A cardiac PET scan helps the medical team evaluate how your heart is functioning or if your blood flow is being obstructed by narrowed arteries, muscle damage, or scar tissue. The PET scan also helps your doctor determine whether or not your heart muscle is working properly. 

In addition to providing diagnostic information, the cardiologists use heart PET scans to determine which treatment is right for your condition. 

 

What can I expect during a cardiac PET scan?

Small electrodes are placed on your chest, legs, and arms. The electrodes have wires attached that connect to an electrocardiogram (EKG) machine, which records your heartbeat throughout the procedure. 

The radionuclide tracers enter your bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line in your arm, and you’ll lie on a special table that slides into the cardiac PET scanner machine. 

Your Naples Heart Rhythm Specialists, P.A., specialist monitors your heartbeat and views the pictures of your heart in real-time to evaluate your heart health. Following your scan, we discuss your results and your options for treatment.

 

Is a cardiac PET scan safe?

Cardiac PET technology does use a small amount of radiation, but the scan is generally safe for many patients. Typically, your kidneys process and eliminate this radiation within 24 hours of your test. 

Your cardiologist reviews your medical history and existing health beforehand to ensure the cardiac PET scan is a good option for you. You may not be able to undergo the test if you’re pregnant or are currently nursing a child. 

To learn more about the diagnostic benefits of a cardiac PET scan, schedule a consultation at Naples Heart Rhythm Specialists, P.A., online or by phone today.