MUGA scan
Pronunciation: MUG-ah
Also written as: MUGA — Multi-Gated Acquisition
A nuclear medicine study that uses radioactive tracers to assess heart function and calculate ejection fraction.
Full Definition
MUGA (Multi-Gated Acquisition) scan, also known as radionuclide ventriculography, is a nuclear cardiology procedure that evaluates cardiac function by tracking the movement of radioactively labeled red blood cells through the heart chambers. The study provides highly accurate and reproducible measurements of ejection fraction and can assess both systolic and diastolic function. MUGA scans are particularly valuable for monitoring cardiotoxicity in patients receiving chemotherapy and for serial assessment of cardiac function. The technique uses ECG gating to synchronize image acquisition with the cardiac cycle, allowing for precise functional analysis.
Usage
Usage note: MUGA is always capitalized. Distinguish from other nuclear cardiology studies like SPECT or PET.
In Context
- "MUGA scan demonstrated preserved ejection fraction at 58%." — Nuclear medicine report
- "Follow-up MUGA scan recommended after completion of chemotherapy." — Oncology consultation