MUGA scan
Pronunciation: MUH-gah
Also written as: MUGA — Multiple Gated Acquisition
A nuclear imaging test that measures heart function and ejection fraction using radioactive tracers.
Full Definition
Multiple Gated Acquisition (MUGA) scan is a nuclear medicine procedure that uses a radioactive tracer to evaluate cardiac function, particularly left ventricular ejection fraction. The test involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material that binds to red blood cells, allowing visualization of blood flow through the heart chambers. MUGA scans are particularly valuable for monitoring cardiac function in patients receiving cardiotoxic chemotherapy and for pre-operative assessment.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as MUGA; avoid 'muga' or 'Muga' in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The oncology team ordered a baseline MUGA scan before initiating doxorubicin therapy." — Cardio-oncology report
- "Serial MUGA scans showed progressive decline in left ventricular function." — Cardiology consultation note