Multigated Acquisition (MUGA) Scan

A MUGA scan is a highly accurate, noninvasive test that may be used if you have symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or a history of heart disease. It may also be used to evaluate your heart function before starting certain treatments, like chemotherapy, that may affect your heart. 

At Westchester Medical Center, the flagship of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network, we offer advanced MUGA scan imaging interpreted by specialists in nuclear cardiology. This means your scan is read by experts who focus on heart imaging—so you get the most accurate results to get your care plan. 

What to Know About Your MUGA Scan 

Here’s what to expect before, during, and after your MUGA scan.  

How to Prepare 

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and avoid wearing jewelry or metal objects. 
• You may be asked to avoid caffeine for a few hours before the test. 
• Your care team will review your medications and provide any necessary instructions, otherwise continue to take your usual medications without any interruption.. 
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, notify your provider in advance. 

What to Expect During the MUGA Scan  

Your MUGA scan will be performed in a nuclear medicine lab by a certified nuclear medicine technologist and interpreted by a specialized cardiologist. The scan takes 30 to 60 minutes and is painless. You’ll need to remain still and follow simple instructions to ensure clear images.  

• An intravenous cannula (a small plastic needle, through which medications can be injected) will be placed in your forearm. 
• A small amount of a radiotracer (Technetium-99m pertechnetate) will be injected intravenously through the cannula in your forearm 
• You’ll lie on a table while a gamma camera takes images of your heart as it beats. 
• Electrodes may be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm. 

What to Expect After 

You can resume most normal activities immediately after your scan. Drinking extra water can help flush the tracer from your system. 

• Your doctor will receive the results and explain what they mean for your treatment or monitoring plan. 

If further care is needed, our team will guide you through next steps with WMCHealth’s integrated cardiac services.