In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 EMAIL TO FRIEND     |      PRINTER FRIENDLY     |    
          advertisement

SPECT Scan

Also called: SPECT, Gated SPECT Scan, Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography, Emission Computed Tomography

- Summary
- About SPECT scans
- How SPECT works
- Types and differences
- Before, during and after
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Abdou Elhendy, MD, PhD, FACC, FAHA
Kerry Prewitt, M.D., FACC

Questions for your doctor

Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions regarding SPECT scans:

  1. How long will this test take?

  2. Is there any danger from exposure to radiation during this test?

  3. Is there a limit to how many SPECT scans I should have because of exposure to radiation?

  4. Will my insurance cover this test?

  5. Is there anything I can do after the test to help flush the radioactive tracer from my system?

  6. If this test shows problems with my heart, what is the next step?

  7. If this test does not show problems with my heart, do you recommend that I get additional scans in the future?

  8. Is this test noisy, or will I be in an enclosed area?

  9. What is the sensitivity of this test?

  10. Are there any other alternatives if I am uncomfortable with exposure to radiation?

  11. Should I have a chemical or exercise SPECT stress test?

Prev Page | page 6 of 6




Review Date: 01-02-2007
Video
Being an Empowered Patient
Patient responsibility and what we need to do to make sure we become...
Blood Pressure
While the exact causes of high blood pressure can remain unknown, it's clear that two...
Music Can Help Ease Pre-Treatment Anxiety
Listening to music may help ease some of the stress and anxiety...
Cholesterol Checkups Can Prevent Heart Attacks
Doctors recommend getting your cholesterol evaluated on a consistent...
Recession Heart Attacks
Can losing your job affect your health? Anyone over 50 who...
Fish Oil Can Help Heart Disease
Fish oil supplements don't appear to benefit heart disease patients...

Advice from Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Helpful tips and information on weight loss

Get answers from an expert
advertisement
advertisement

YourTotalHealth      

Home  |  Health Centers  |  Health A-Z  |  Staying Healthy  |  Diet & Fitness  |  Woman & Family  |  Pregnancy  |  Community  |  

also on iVillage: Pregnancy & Parenting  |  Beauty & Style  |  Home & Garden  |  Food  |  Weddings  |  Love  |  Entertainment  |  NeverSayDiet

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map  |  Newsletters  |  Feedback

Copyright (c) 2000-2009 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.