Question:
Anyone need a nuclear tracer test for cardio screen?

Just curious what was involved with your cardiologist clearing if you were required to have one. I thought that at 35 and BMI of 41, I'd just need an EKG, but I have to get not only a stress test, but the one with the nuclear tracer. I saw a few posts where people have had echocardiograms. It just seems like this is extreme. I'm also worrying about what they might find. I went through the ultrasound already and it showed that I have a large cyst that probably will have to be removed.    — w8free (posted on February 23, 2003)

February 23, 2003
It depends on YOU! They decide if its needed by looking at your age, diabetic, cholestrol, lipids, and a ton of other risk factors that are specific to you. They do this so they dont have a nasty surprise on the OR table. Its the problems that come up unexpectdly that cause the greatest risk. Your doc is being conserative and careful, that reassuring.
   — bob-haller

February 23, 2003
First of all relax....the nuclear tracer aspect to the stress test is no big deal. Same thing only they inject a nuclear dye into your blood stream...take a bunch of pictures of your heart, do the treadmill and then take a bunch more pictures of your heart. Very easy. The Dr. won't let you go on the treadmill any more than you can physically. Second, I would rather know in advance if there is something wrong then in the middle of your surgery! This extra precaution should be looked at as having a very thorough dr. Good luck to you!
   — Leah H.