thallium treadmill test:

This information is provided exclusively for Queen's Heart patients. Please review this infomation carefully before arriving for your test.

A thallium stress test is also sometimes called a myocardial perfusion test. There are two parts to this test. The first part is an exercise treadmill test used to increase heart rate and blood flow to the heart. Once you reach your maximum heart rate a small amount of Thallium is injected into your blood stream. The Thallium can be seen using a special camera as it moves through the vessels of your heart. This allows your doctor to determine if there are any areas of blockage and reduced blood flow to your heart muscle (the myocardium)

The test is used to determine blood flow to your heart muscle, how much damage may have been caused by a recent heart attack, the effectiveness of a cardiac procedure you may have had done, cause of chest pain you may be having, or the level of exercise you can safely perform.

You will be asked to walk on a treadmill (this is a moving belt). During the test the speed and incline of the treadmill will change at regular time intervals. The staff will let you know when a change is coming up.

Your heart will be monitored during the test using electrocardiogram (EKG) to determine your heart rate and any changes in your hearts rhythm.

When you are walking on the treadmill, please let the staff know if you experience problems such as chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, pain into your jaw or back, and dizziness.

When you have reached your maximum heart rate, or can't walk any longer on the treadmill, you will be helped off the treadmill and to lay down. A small amount of thallium will be injected into your blood stream and a special camera will then monitor and record the blood flow to your heart. The thallium allows your doctor to see any areas where there is limited or no blood flow to your heart muscle.

You will be asked to lay there until your heart rate returns to resting. During this time the camera will continue to record the blood flow to your heart.

Anywhere from 45 minutes to 3 hours.

Please do not smoke tobacco 4 hours prior to this test as it may cause abnormal results. Also, do not do any unusual physical activity up to 12 hours before the test. Examples are: long distance running, biking or swimming.

No. Do not eat or drink anything for at least 4 hours.

Wear exercise clothing, including gym or walking shorts, otherwise, we will be happy to provide you with hospital pajamas. One-piece clothing and dresses are not recommended. Wear comfortable jogging shoes, since bare feet can develop blisters.

Bring any paperwork and/or questionnaires your doctor gave you. Bring a copy of an EKG/ECG done within the last 2 weeks. If you cannot get one from your doctor's office we will do one before the test. Bring any medications you are taking.

Yes.

If you have questions about medications you are taking, ask your doctor.

The results of your test will be sent to your doctor who will discuss them with you.

If you experience pain, shortness of breath, or weakness, call your doctor or go to the nearest emergency room for help.

Yes.

Please call the Queen's Pre-Registration Department at 808.543.6520 three days before your test to register. They will ask you questions that are needed for your registration. Please have your medical insurance cards and social security number ready.

On the day of the test you may go directly to Queen's Heart, on the 3rd floor of the Pauahi Building, located directly above the Emergency Room.

Call Queen's Heart at 808.547.4535