Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) Overview

Echocardiography is a test that employs ultrasound to create an image of your heart. This ultrasound makes use of sound waves, or echoes, to produce the visual. The stress echocardiogram procedure is performed to assess the adequacy of blood flow to your heart and to evaluate how effectively your heart is pumping.

Images of your heart will be captured both before and after you exercise.

The purposes of this test include:

- Diagnosing whether you have coronary artery disease or if you are at risk of developing it

- Assessing the likelihood of your condition worsening

- Identifying any other issues related to your heart and blood flow

For patients and their families, understanding cardiology patient resources can help in preparation.

How to Prepare for Your Test:

- Do not eat or drink for three hours before the test

- Avoid consuming anything with caffeine (like coffee) for 24 hours before the test

- Certain heart medications, such as beta blockers, may need to be discontinued 24-48 hours prior to the procedure. Consult your doctor for specific medication instructions before the test, and do not stop taking any medications without medical advice.

- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes appropriate for exercising on a treadmill or bike.

What to Expect During the Test:

During the procedure, you will engage in exercise by walking or running on a treadmill. The total duration of the test is about 1.5 hours.