What does RVG mean in PHYSIOLOGY

A Radionuclide Ventriculogram (RVG) is an imaging test that uses nuclear medicine technology to measure the size and shape of the heart's lower chambers or ventricles. The images produced by an RVG allow doctors to detect any abnormal changes in muscle structure or function that may indicate heart disease.

An RVG involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into a vein in your arm or leg. This substance travels through your bloodstream and collects in your heart muscle tissue. Once there, specialized cameras detect radiation emissions from the material and create images of your heart's size and shape which are then captured on film.

An RVG can provide early detection of abnormalities within the walls of your ventricles before symptoms begin, making it easier for physicians to identify and treat underlying problems more effectively. Additionally, having an RVG done is non-invasive as compared to other forms of cardiac imaging tests like angiograms which require access through catheters inserted into blood vessels at certain points around your body.

Risks associated with having an RVG done include exposure to radiation from the injected radioactive material as well as allergic reactions or bruising where injections were administered into veins in your arms or legs. In rare cases, irregular rhythms or seizures may occur due to overexposure to radiation during long exposures needed for certain tests like stress testing for coronary artery disease (CAD).

Depending on whether you are undergoing additional tests such as a stress test along with your RVG; you may be asked not to eat several hours before hand so that medications can be administered properly if needed by intravenous injection (IV). If you take any prescription medications regularly; it's important that you inform your doctor about them prior because certain drugs affect test results when used in conjunction with nuclear scans such as those required for this type of imaging procedure.