A thallium scan is a nuclear imaging test that shows how well blood flows into the heart while you’re exercising or at rest. This test is also called a cardiac or nuclear stress test.
During the procedure, a radioisotope (nuclear liquid) is administered through an IV. The radioisotope will flow through your blood stream and end up in your heart. Once the radiation is in your heart, a special camera called a gamma camera can detect the radiation and reveal any issues your heart muscle is having.
