Definition of Persantine thallium scan

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Persantine thallium scan: A type of myocardial perfusion scan done to disclose any areas of the heart muscle that may not be getting enough blood to perfuse them properly. Persantine (Dipyridamole) is a medication that dilates (widens) the coronary arteries. It produces an effect similar to what happens when one exercises.

The sestamibi scan with Persantine is basically identical to the regular exercise sestamibi scan but is designed for people who may be unable to exercise enough to meet the demands of the exercise sestamibi test (or whose physicians are concerned that they cannot exercise enough with sufficient safety).