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MUGA scan

A MUGA scan is a nuclear medicine test of the heart. It shows precise heart pumping fraction. Typical effective dose 5 to 8 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).

General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.

What it shows

Precise heart pumping fraction.

Why it is done

Monitoring before and during some cancer treatments.

Preparation

A small radioactive tracer is injected or swallowed. Preparation depends on the test; tell staff if pregnant or breastfeeding, as feeding may need a pause.

Radiation & safety

Typical effective dose 5 to 8 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long it takes

1 to 2 hours. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.

Sample type

Nuclear medicine

Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.

Related conditions

entry-health-condition-hf

Where to get this near you

Care near you

Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.

Common questions

What does a muga scan show?
Precise heart pumping fraction.

Why is a muga scan done?
Monitoring before and during some cancer treatments.

How do I prepare for a muga scan?
A small radioactive tracer is injected or swallowed. Preparation depends on the test; tell staff if pregnant or breastfeeding, as feeding may need a pause.

Does a muga scan use radiation?
Typical effective dose 5 to 8 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long does a muga scan take?
1 to 2 hours

Why is MUGA scan done?
Monitoring before and during some cancer treatments.

How do I prepare for MUGA scan?
A small radioactive tracer is injected or swallowed. Preparation depends on the test; tell staff if pregnant or breastfeeding, as feeding may need a pause.

Is MUGA scan safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 5 to 8 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.

Sources: SI health summary (own words); decoder imaging pack; RadiologyInfo.org and MedlinePlus as references only

Emergency — call102