The test is done in two parts, resting and stress (exercise). After the technician injects the nuclear imaging material through an IV line in your arm and you will rest comfortably during this time as the material takes 30 minutes to circulate through your bloodstream. After the circulation time, the technician completes the first scan, which takes about 15 minutes.
Next, the technician injects Lexiscan through the IV line and you will either walk slowly on a treadmill (if you are able) or rest on a bed or chair. The technician injects more nuclear imaging material and you will rest comfortably as it takes another 30 minutes to circulate through your bloodstream. After the circulation time, the technician completes the second scan in another 15 minutes.
During both scans, a camera rotates around your chest while you lie still. These two scans help your doctor determine if any defects are temporary or permanent because of earlier heart damage.