Dobutamine Myocardial Perfusion Imaging

What is a Dobutamine MPI stress test?

This test allows the doctor to see how well the blood flows to your heart. You will be given a medication called dobutamine over five to 10 minutes to slowly raise your heart rate as if you were walking or running on a treadmill.

To make an appointment for a Cardiac Diagnostic Test, call
(815) 759.4050.

How is the procedure performed?

A small IV will be started in your arm. Your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels will be monitored. Then, the  dobutamine medication will be started. When your target heart rate is reached a small dose of radioactive tracer will be injected. The tracer does not have any side effects and will not hurt you. The medication will then be shut off and your heart rate will return to normal in about 10 to 15 minutes.

After about 30 minutes you will lie flat on a table and a scanner will take images of your heart for 15 minutes. The radiologist will read these images. You will receive the results from your doctor or designated healthcare provider.

How should I prepare for the Dobutamine MPI stress test?

  • Wear comfortable clothing.
  • Eat a light meal  six hours prior to your stress test appointment.
  • Do not have any caffeine, decaffeinated or chocolate beverages. Do not eat any chocolate.
  • Do not take any beta blocker blood pressure medication. (examples: Toprol, Atenolol, Inderal, Coreg, etc).
  • Do not smoke the day of the test.
  • Do not apply lotions or powders to your skin. You may wear underarm deodorant.
  • Talk to your doctor or caregiver about which medications you should  take before the test.
  • Bring a list of your current medications.
  • Arrive 30 to 45 minutes prior to the test in the Heart Center.
  • Please allow 90 minutes for your test and imaging. You may be asked to return on another day for the resting (non medication) images of your heart. Please allow  one hour for this.

What should I tell the doctor or nurse before the test?

  • If you have glaucoma
  • If you are pregnant or breast feeding
  • If you have any questions or concerns

Call your doctor if you have:

  • Any new or unrelieved chest pain
  • Any new or unrelieved problems breathing
  • Any new problems or concerns

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