What it means
An imaging test in which a tracer is injected into a vein and a gamma camera rotates around the body to build images. It shows blood flow and function rather than only structure. It is used most often for heart perfusion (stress tests), and also for the brain and bones.
For the nurse
For a cardiac SPECT, teach the client to avoid caffeine and sometimes certain drugs beforehand as instructed. The tracer amount is small, and drinking fluids afterward helps clear it.
At a glance
| Also written | single-photon emission computed tomography, SPECT scan |
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Related terms
perfusion
The flow of blood through the body's tissues, bringing them oxygen and nutrients.
coronary artery disease
Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle, most often from fatty plaque buildup.
computed tomography
An imaging test that uses x-rays and a computer to make cross-section pictures of the inside of the body.