We have updated our Birchmount Hospital phone lines. When you call through the main line (416-495-2400), you will need to add “7” when dialing an extension.

Stress Nuclear Cardiology

Exercise Stress MIBI

An exercise stress MIBI is a test where pictures of the heart (using a Nuclear camera) are taken at rest and then while recovering after reaching the highest heart rate after walking on a treadmill. The test is used to assess blood flow to the heart with exercise.

What should I do to prepare for the test?

  • Many people find it uncomfortable to exercise on a full stomach so we ask that you do not have a large meal two hours before the test. You may have fluids and small snacks in this time period.
  • Please DO NOT drink any beverages with caffeine nor take any medications that contain caffeine for 24 hours prior to the test.
  • Wear comfortable, loose clothing, as well as running shoes or good walking shoes.
  • Continue to take your usual medications as prescribed by your doctor, unless told otherwise.
  • Please bring a list of your current medications.

How long is the test?

The test takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete from start to finish.

What will happen during the test?

  • You will be given a complete explanation of the test with time for questions and a consent form to sign before beginning the test.
  • You will begin in the Nuclear department to have resting pictures of your heart. Then you will be taken to the Cardiac Diagnostics department for the exercise portion.
  • There will be a Nuclear and ECG technician in the room. The doctor is in the immediate vicinity and will be available if needed at any time.
  • The ECG technician will place electrodes on your chest—your heart rhythm and blood pressure will be monitored throughout.
  • The ECG technician will familiarize you with the treadmill and demonstrate how to walk on it. The speed and slope of the treadmill will change every three minutes until a target heart rate (determined by age) has been reached.
  • Once completed, you will then be taken again to the Nuclear department to have a second set of pictures of your heart which will be compared to the resting pictures.

  • The test will be read and reported by a cardiologist, and that report will go to your doctor.
  • The Nuclear and ECG technician in the room are not able to provide you with test results.

Persantine MIBI

A Persantine MIBI is a test where pictures of the heart (using a Nuclear camera) are taken at rest and then while recovering after an injection of Persantine. The test is used to assess blood flow to the heart muscle.

What should I do to prepare for the test?

  • Some people experience mild nausea so we ask that you do not have a large meal two hours before the test. You may have fluids and small snacks in this time period.
  • Please DO NOT drink any beverages with caffeine nor take any medications that contain caffeine for 24 hours prior to the test.
  • Continue to take your usual medications as prescribed by your doctor, unless told otherwise.
  • Please bring a list of your current medications.

How long is the test?

The test takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete from start to finish.

What will happen during the test?

  • You will be given a complete explanation of the test with time for questions and a consent form to sign before beginning the test.
  • You will begin in the Nuclear department to have resting pictures of your heart. Then you will be taken to the Cardiac Diagnostics department for the Persantine portion.
  • There will be a Nuclear and ECG technician in the room. The doctor is in the immediate vicinity and will be available if needed at any time.
  • The ECG technician will place electrodes on your chest—your heart rhythm and blood pressure will be monitored throughout.
  • Over the course of 4 minutes, you will be given an injection to imitate exercise. Afterwards, as needed, a medication can be given to reverse the effects of the Persantine.
  • Once completed, you will then be taken again to the Nuclear department to have a second set of pictures of your heart which will be compared to the resting pictures.

  • The test will be read and reported by a cardiologist and that report will go to your doctor.
  • The Nuclear and ECG technician in the room are not able to provide you with test results.