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The MUGA scan (Multigated Acquisition Scan) is a heart imaging test that checks how well your heart is pumping blood. It uses a small amount of radioactive material and a special camera to take pictures of your heart's function. The cost can vary depending on the hospital and city. Knowing the normal range helps doctors diagnose accurately. The test is generally safe, with minimal risks like mild discomfort or radiation exposure.
What is the MUGA scan?
A multigated acquisition (MUGA) scan is an imaging examination used to assess how well your heart pumps blood. It employs a radionuclide injection as well as a customized camera. Your healthcare practitioner takes photos of your heart as the radionuclide goes through your blood.
A MUGA scan detects how your heart muscle contracts and relaxes during rest or exercise. MUGA scans are also known as radionuclide ventriculography (RNVG) and equilibrium radionuclide angiocardiography (ERNA).
Why is the MUGA Scan Done?
If you show indicators of heart failure, your doctor may recommend a MUGA scan. Your heart does not pump blood as effectively as it should when you have heart failure. The following are some of the most prevalent symptoms of heart failure:
- Chest pain
- Angina
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen hands or feet
A MUGA scan may be ordered by your doctor before or after cancer treatment. Cancer therapies have caused cardiac damage in certain people, including:
- Bone marrow transplant
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation therapy to the chest
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Get Second OpinionHow is the MUGA Scan Performed?
During this test, you will be asked to lie still on an exam table while a special camera is positioned over your chest.
- Electrodes that assess cardiac activity are attached to your chest.
- The radiotracer is injected into your vein.
- Pictures from a variety of angles will be taken.
- The technician wants you to exercise between images, such as walking on a treadmill. Exercise allows your cardiologist (heart doctor) to monitor your stress levels.
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How Should I Prepare for the MUGA Scan?
To prepare for a MUGA scan, your clinician will provide you with tailored advice. In general, you should refrain from eating or drinking anything for up to six hours before the test. Your physician may also advise you to abstain from caffeine for a period of time. Coffee might cause your heart rate to increase, which can interfere with test findings. Inform your doctor about all of the drugs you are taking.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of the MUGA scan?
Most people are not at risk from MUGA scans. The radiotracer isn't dangerous, and it normally passes through your body within 24 hours.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, suspect you are pregnant or are breastfeeding. These tests are normally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women since they may cause harm to the baby.
How Do I Understand My MUGA scan Results?
The results of a MUGA scan can provide information about the overall function of the heart and how well it is able to pump blood.
The results of a MUGA scan are typically reported in terms of the ejection fraction (EF), which is a measure of how much blood the left ventricle is able to pump out with each heartbeat. A normal EF is typically between 50% and 70%.
If the EF is lower than normal, it may indicate that the heart is not functioning properly and may be a sign of a heart condition. Depending on the specific findings of the MUGA scan, further testing or treatment may be recommended.
It is important to discuss the results of a MUGA scan with your healthcare provider, who can provide more specific information based on your individual circumstances and medical history.
When is the MUGA Scan Needed?
Doctors may recommend a MUGA scan in the following situations:
- Heart failure: If you show symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, or swelling in your feet and hands.
- Cancer treatment monitoring: Before or after cancer treatments (like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation to the chest) to check for any damage to the heart.
- Heart function assessment: To evaluate how well the heart is pumping blood, especially if you're at risk of or have been diagnosed with heart disease.
Who Should Take the MUGA Scan?
- Individuals with heart conditions, such as heart failure or previous heart attacks.
- Patients being monitored for chemotherapy effects on the heart.
- People with unexplained shortness of breath, chest pain, or fatigue.
- Those with a history of irregular heart rhythms or valvular heart disease.
- Individuals over the age of 50 with a family history of heart disease.
- People undergoing evaluation for heart surgery or treatment planning.
What Type of Sample is Collected for the MUGA Scan and How?
- The MUGA scan does not require a traditional sample like blood or urine.
- Instead, a small amount of your blood is collected to label red blood cells with a radioactive tracer.
- The blood is then injected back into your body through a vein (usually in your arm).
- After that, a special camera takes images of the heart as the labeled blood moves through it, showing how well the heart is pumping.
Are There Other Ways to Collect the Sample for the MUGA Scan?
- No, the only sample required is a small amount of blood for the tracer.
- There are no alternate methods for collecting the sample, though the procedure may vary slightly based on specific patient needs or health conditions.
How Long Does the MUGA Scan Take?
- The entire MUGA scan process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
- Blood is drawn for the tracer in the first 15-20 minutes, and then the scan itself takes about 20-30 minutes to complete as images are captured of the heart.
When Will I Get My MUGA Scan Results?
- Results from the MUGA scan typically take 12 to 24 hours to be processed.
- Once available, the results will be sent directly to you via WhatsApp or as a printed copy.
What Should I Do After Getting My MUGA Scan Results?
- If your results are normal, your doctor may suggest routine monitoring and follow-up visits.
- If abnormalities are found, your doctor will discuss treatment options, which could include medications, lifestyle changes, or additional tests for further evaluation.
- In some cases, further heart-related tests may be recommended to assess your heart health in more detail.
Is the MUGA Scan Painful?
- The MUGA scan itself is painless.
- The only slight discomfort you may feel is during the blood draw, which is similar to any standard blood test.
- Afterward, you won't experience any pain or discomfort during the scan itself, as it is a non-invasive procedure.
What are the Factors Affecting MUGA Scan Cost?
- The cost of the MUGA scan can vary depending on the type of hospital, the location of the test, and the facilities available.
- If additional services such as consultations or follow-up appointments are included, it may increase the overall cost.
- The type of equipment used in the scan and the complexity of the procedure can also affect the price.
How Much Does the MUGA Scan Cost in India?
- The average cost of a MUGA scan in India is around Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000.
- However, the price can vary depending on the hospital and the city where the test is performed.
- It's advisable to check with local labs or hospitals for the most accurate pricing.
MUGA Scan Test Price in Different Cities Across India
| City | Price |
| Hyderabad | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Chandanagar | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Karimnagar | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Nizamabad | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Warangal | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| MVP Visakhapatnam | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Srikakulam | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Kakinada | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Kurnool | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Nellore | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Navi Mumbai | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Nashik | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Pune | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Sangamner | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
| Bengaluru | Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
A MUGA scan is an imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive material and a special camera to create images of the heart as it beats. It is often used to assess the function of the heart's ventricles.
A MUGA scan is typically done to evaluate the function of the heart and how well it is able to pump blood. It might be done to diagnose or monitor heart conditions such as heart failure, cardiomyopathy, or coronary artery disease.
During a MUGA scan, a small amount of radioactive material is injected into the arm veins. The material then travels to the heart, where it emits radiation that is detected by a special camera. The camera creates images of the heart as it beats, which can be analyzed to assess the function of the ventricles.
A MUGA scan typically takes about 30-60 minutes to complete. However, the exact duration may vary depending on the specific protocol used by the healthcare provider.
In general, you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking anything for some hours before the test.
You may be asked to avoid caffeine or certain medications before the scan. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the test.
Yes, a MUGA scan detects heart failure.
A MUGA scan might cost around Rs. 3000 to Rs. 5000 approximately, however, the price can vary from place to place.
You can get a MUGA scan at Medicover Hospitals.
