A cardiac imaging scan, اسکن قلب also known as a nuclear heart scan, is a medical imaging procedure that uses low levels of radiation to detect blockages or damage to the heart muscle. This diagnostic tool is primarily used in cardiology to diagnose and monitor other heart conditions.

The technical aspects of a cardiac imaging procedure involve the introduction of a special medicine, usually in the form of a small injection of a tracer such as thallium, into the patient's bloodstream. Once the compound reaches the heart muscle, it emits gamma radiation, which is then detected by a gamma camera. The gamma camera captures images of the heart muscle's blood flow and provides a precise map of the heart's function.

A nuclear heart scan typically involves two phases: a baseline scan and a exertion test. During the resting phase, the patient lies down on an imaging table and the gamma camera takes a series of images of the heart muscle while the radioactive tracer accumulates. This phase helps to identify any defects in heart muscle blood flow that may have been present before physical activity.

In the stress phase, the patient is usually asked to walk on a stationary bike to increase their heart rate. The exercise is designed to stress the heart and expose any underlying conditions. This phase is then followed by another series of images, which can help identify any changes in blood flow to the heart muscle.

The collected images are then analyzed by a specialist, such as a nuclear medicine expert who uses advanced diagnostic tools to create a detailed map of the heart muscle's blood flow and detect any blockages or damage. This analysis allows for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of other heart conditions.

A nuclear heart scan is particularly useful in diagnosing patients with symptoms of coronary artery disease and has also become increasingly important for the early detection of cardiac damage due to conditions such as cardiomyopathy or valve disease. The results of a nuclear heart scan can lead to additional treatment options such as medications and create tailored care.

Furthermore, advancements in diagnostic tools have generated promising data for the practical combination of the nuclear heart scan and even led to more accurate diagnoses beyond what is possible in a standalone nuclear heart scan.

A nuclear heart scan provides precise insight into a patient's heart function and can be used to evaluate care progress. As technology continues to advance and more sophisticated medical imaging tools are developed, the nuclear heart scan remains a vital diagnostic procedure that plays a significant role in helping medical professionals diagnose and manage conditions affecting the heart.