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Appointment Preparation

If you have any questions or concerns, please call 905-855-1860, in advance of your appointment.

Note :

Cancellation policy: KMH respectfully requests a minimum of 48 hours’ notice to cancel or
change your appointment.

Medications: Please bring a list of your current medications to the appointment.

Health Card: Ontario residents must present a valid health card. Out of province and
research patients please contact KMH prior to your appointment.

KMH is a Fragrance Free Facility: Please respect the health of our staff and patients by refraining from the use of scented products.
Thank you.

Please click on the test below to view the preparation instructions.

Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring

An ambulatory blood pressure monitor is a small unit that includes a cuff worn on your arm that takes your blood pressure and records changes or fluctuations over a period of time (usually 24 hours). It is usually ordered for the evaluation of hypertension or hypotension and for the evaluation of blood pressure medication

Before the Test:
There is no preparation for this procedure. However, please wear comfortable clothing with easy access to your upper arms. Please note: this test is not covered by OHIP and there is an $75 fee required.
During the Test:
A blood pressure monitor cuff will be placed around your arm and a small recording device will be placed around your waist. The blood pressure cuff will inflate every 20 minutes on your arm during the day and every 30 minutes during the evening. You cannot shower or bathe while the monitor is attached to you.
After the Test:
You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete, unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise.
What to Bring:
To avoid delays on the day of your test, ensure that you bring your health card and your requisition. As well, bring your current list of medications.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 15 mins, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

CardioSTAT (14 day wireless ECG monitor)

CardioSTAT is a single-use, long term, continuous ECG monitor that is about the size of a large bandage (142mm by 40mm) with no wires. Because it is showerproof, you can maintain your daily hygiene routine without interrupting the recording. The CardioSTAT device records the electrical activity related to your heartbeat during the whole time it is worn (14-days). It will help your physician correlate symptoms of dizziness, palpitations or “black outs”.

Before the Test:
Do not apply any lotion, cream or oil to the chest area on the day of the test and try to wear loose and comfortable clothing. Bring a list of current prescription medications.
During the Test:
A resting ECG will be done before the Cardiostat monitor is placed on your chest. The monitor will be attached to the upper or middle part of your chest using two small adhesive pads called “electrodes”. Cardiostat is a compact, discrete and comfortable heart monitor that allows you to stay active throughout the day and will not affect your sleep. You may continue wearing it through your workout sessions and even in the shower.
After the Test:
Once the recording period has been completed, the monitor must be returned, by mail, using the pre-paid Xpress-Post envelope provided. Simply bring the envelope to a Canada Post office to be mailed. Please remember to obtain a receipt from Canada Post.
What to Bring:
To avoid delays on the day of your test, ensure that you bring your health card and your requisition
Duration:
The approximate duration is 15-20 mins, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.
Important Info:
DO NOT submerge the monitor in water. Activities such as bathing and swimming should be avoided.
The monitor is shower resistant. Please follow the instructions below to avoid exposing the monitor to excess water.
- Reduce the water flow of the shower to a minimum;
- Avoid direct exposure of the monitor with the shower jet;
- Avoid prolonged or very hot showers, as this may promote peeling off of the adhesive pads
- Avoid rubbing a towel on the monitor, as this may affect the recording

Echocardiography

Echocardiography is a non-invasive cardiac ultrasound test. It will evaluate the anatomy and function of the heart chambers, walls and cardiac valves. When the cardiac imaging is suboptimal in technically difficult tests, an intravenous ultrasound enhancer may be required.

A Bubble Echocardiogram is helpful to confirm or rule out some congenital defects of the heart walls or vessels.

Before the Test:
Please do not apply any body lotion or oil to your skin.
During the Test:
You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up and given a gown to wear. Three electrode pads will be placed on your chest and shoulders to monitor your heartbeat. You will need to lie down on an examination table, and a water-based gel will be applied to your chest. The gel may feel cold but will not harm your skin, and it will be removed at the end of the test. The technologist will hold a transducer on your chest to obtain different images of the heart. You may or may not hear a “whoosh” sound during the test. The transducer must be pressed firmly against your chest by the technologist to obtain better quality images, and this pressure may be uncomfortable, especially over your ribs. You may be asked to change your position or hold your breath at times during the test to take pictures of different areas of your heart.
Additional diagnostic information will be obtained with the injection of agitated saline contrast (bubble study). A cardiologist will inject the agitated saline while the technologist records the images.
After the Test:
You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise.
What to Bring:
To avoid delays on the day of your test, ensure that you bring your health card and your requisition. As well, bring your current list of medications
Duration:
The approximate duration is 40 mins. However, please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Stress Echocardiography
(Exercise or Pharmacological)

The stress echocardiography is a non-invasive cardiac ultrasound test to evaluate the function of the heart chambers and walls at rest and especially with stress. The maximum cardiac stress can be achieved with an exercise on the treadmill or with the administration of the pharmacological stressor: Persantine. Pharmacological stress echocardiography is a choice for patients for whom an exercise stress echocardiography is not feasible or contraindicated. When the cardiac imaging is suboptimal in technically difficult tests, an intravenous ultrasound enhancer may be required.

Before the Test:

You may have a light breakfast and/or lunch the day of the test. Please do not apply any body lotion or oil to your skin. No caffeine 4 hours before the exercise stress test and no caffeine 12 hours before a pharmacological stress test (no tea, coffee, decaffeinated products, chocolate, soda pop or medications containing caffeine). Bring a list of all current prescription medications and check with your physician regarding the discontinuation of any heart medications, especially BetaBlockers (like Metoprolol or Atenolol) or Calcium Channel Blockers (like Diltiazem or Verapamil). If you are taking Tylenol 1, 2, 3, please contact your doctor’s office to receive approval to discontinue before the test. If you take Viagra, Levitra, Stendra or Muse, please contact your doctor’s office to receive approval to discontinue for 24 hours before the test. If you are taking Cialis, please contact your doctor’s office to receive approval to discontinue for 96 hours before the test.
During the Test:

You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up and given a gown to wear. Three electrode pads will be placed on your chest and shoulders to monitor your heartbeat. You will need to lie down on an examination table, and a water-based gel will be applied to your chest. The gel may feel cold but will not harm your skin, and it will be removed at the end of the test. The technologist will hold a transducer on your chest to obtain different images of the heart. You may or may not hear a “whoosh” sound during the test. The transducer must be pressed firmly against your chest by the technologist to obtain better quality images, and this pressure may be uncomfortable, especially over your ribs. You may be asked to change your position or hold your breath at times during the test to take pictures of different areas of your heart.

For the exercise stress part of the test, several electrode pads will be placed on your chest. You will begin walking on the treadmill, and then the speed and incline will increase in stages. Your heart rate will rise, which is expected. You will be encouraged to exercise for as long as possible because this will increase the test effectiveness. When the stress target is achieved, we will stop the treadmill, and you will lie down on the examination table for additional cardiac ultrasound imaging.

For the Persantine stress part of the test, several electrode pads will be placed on your chest. A technician will set up an intravenous line in your arm. The Persantine is then slowly administered or administered in stages by the supervising physician. The cardiac ultrasound imaging will be performed during and after the administration of Persantine.
After the Test:

After the stress part of the test is over, you will be seated for a few minutes. The ECG and your blood pressure will be monitored. You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise. You can drive after the test.
What to Bring:

To avoid delays on the day of your test, ensure that you bring your health card and your requisition. Please bring running shoes, a t-shirt and pants or shorts for the exercise test. As well, bring your current list of medications.
Duration:

The approximate duration of an exercise or Persantine stress echocardiography is 1 hour, however, please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Graded Exercise Test (Stress Test)

A GXT is used to evaluate the heart’s response to exercise. In normal circumstances, the heart spreads electrical activity from an area of specialized heart cells called “pacemaker cells” to the rest of the heart.

With exercise, there are normal patterns of change in the electrical activity of your heart. Different types of heart disease are associated with certain patterns of change in electrical activity during the exercise process. The changes in the pattern of the electrical activity are recorded in the ECG during the test to diagnose any issues. This test is used to assess chest pain, exercise functional capacity, risk stratification and evaluation of patients with rare-responsive pacemakers.

Before the Test:
You can have a light breakfast and/or lunch the day of the test. No caffeine 4 hours prior to test (No tea, coffee, decaffeinated products, chocolate, soda pop or medications containing caffeine). If you are taking Tylenol 1,2,3 please contact your doctor’s office to receive approval to discontinue prior to the test. If you are taking Viagra, Levitra, Stendra or Muse, please contact your doctor’s office to receive approval to discontinue for 24 hours prior to the test. If you are taking Cialis, please contact your doctor’s office to receive approval to discontinue for 96 hours prior to the test.
During the Test:
Several electrode pads will be placed on your chest to obtain an ECG (men may need to have a small area of their chest shaved). Electrodes are connected to the ECG, which monitors your heart rhythm throughout the test. A cuff is placed around your arm to measure your blood pressure. You will begin walking on the tread mill. It will start slowly and then the speed/grade will increase in stages. You will be encouraged to exercise for as long as you can because this will increase the effectiveness of the test. After the exercise test is over, you will be seated for a few minutes. The ECG and your blood pressure will be monitored.
After the Test:
You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete, unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise.
What to Bring:
To avoid delays on the day of your test, ensure that you bring your health card and your requisition. As well, bring your current list of medications. Please bring running shoes, t-shirt and pants or shorts for the exercise test.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 25 mins, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Resting ECG

A resting ECG is used to evaluate patterns of change in the electrical activity of your heart at rest. There are normal patterns of changes in the electrical activity of your heart. The changes in the pattern of the electrical activity are recorded in the ECG during the test to diagnose any issues. The test allows for assessment of chest pain, risk stratification and evaluation of patients with rare-responsive pacemakers.

Before the Test:
Do not apply any lotion, cream or oil to the chest area on the day of the test
During the Test:
Several electrode pads will be placed on your chest to obtain an ECG (men may need to have a small area of their chest shaved). Electrodes are connected to the ECG, which monitors your heart rhythm throughout the test. A cuff is placed around your arm to measure your blood pressure.
After the Test:
You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete, unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise.
What to Bring:
To avoid delays on the day of your test, ensure that you bring your health card and your requisition. As well, bring your current list of medications.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 10 mins, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Holter Monitoring

Holter monitoring is a continuous digital recording of the patient’s electrical activity of the heart for 24 to 72 hours. Since it is worn during your regular daily activities, it will help your physician correlate symptoms of dizziness, palpitations or “black outs”.

Before the Test:
Do not use body lotion. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing so it is easy to dress after the monitor has been hooked up.
During the Test:
ECG electrodes will be placed on your chest and connected to a lightweight monitor that will be worn around your waist. You will carry this monitor around with you for 24 hours to 72 hours, depending on the duration requested.
After the Test:
You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete, unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise.
What to Bring:
To avoid delays on the day of your test, ensure that you bring your health card and your requisition
Duration:
The approximate duration is 25 mins, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

72 Hour Wireless Holter Monitor

Holter monitoring is a continuous digital recording of the a patient’s electrical activity of the heart for 72 hours. Since it is worn during your regular daily activities, it will help your physician correlate symptoms of dizziness, palpitations or “black outs”.

Before the Test:
Do not apply any lotion, cream or oil to the chest area on the day of the test and try to wear loose and comfortable clothing
During the Test:
The monitor is attached to the upper part of your chest using small adhesive pads called “electrodes”. It is a compact, discrete and comfortable heart monitor that allows you to stay active throughout the day. You may continue wearing it through your workout sessions and even in the shower.
After the Test:
You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete, unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise.
What to Bring:
Bring a list of current prescription medications
To avoid late return fees, the monitor must be returned to KMH at the end of the prescribed duration or as instructed by the technologist.
What to Bring:
DO NOT submerge the monitor in water. Activities such as bathing and swimming should be avoided.
The monitor is shower resistant. Please follow the instructions below to avoid exposing the monitor to excess water.
- Reduce the water flow of the shower to a minimum;
- Avoid direct exposure of the monitor with the shower jet;
- Avoid prolonged or very hot showers, as this may promote peeling off of the adhesive pads
- Avoid rubbing a towel on the monitor, as this may affect the recording
Duration:
The approximate duration is 25 mins, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

MRI - (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

A MRI is a medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and computer generated radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues in your body. The MRI machine is a large tube shaped magnet used to diagnose a variety of conditions.

Before the Test:

You will be required to fill out a few forms. Depending on which part of your body is being scanned, you will be asked to change into a gown during the procedure. You will be allowed to wear your undergarment but we ask that no undergarment with known silver or metallic fibers be worn. It is also important to remove any loose metal objects from your body, including:
- Watches
- No prostheses or braces
- Jewellery (such as earrings and necklaces)
- Piercings (such as ear, nipple and nose rings)
- Dentures (false teeth)
- Hearing Aids
- Wigs (some wigs contain traces of metal)
- We recommend that patients show up without wearing any hair products, jewelry, hair pins, piercings or makeup for their exam.
During the Test:

During the MRI scan you will be asked to lay very still for a prolonged period of time. Some MRI scans involve an injection of contrast dye, which makes certain tissues and blood vessels show up more clearly and in greater detail. The contrast dye is administered through an IV in your arm.
After the Test:

You will be able to return to your normal activities when the test is complete, unless your physician or technician tells you otherwise.
What to Bring:

To avoid delays on the day of your test, ensure that you bring your health card.
Duration:

The approximate duration is 15-30 mins, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment
Additional Notes:

For breast and abdominal MRI scans, please follow the specific preparation instructions given at the time of booking.

If you have been prescribed sedation by your Physician to be taken during your MRI scan, it is imperative that you arrange for a drive after the appointment.

For patient safety, we will be asking for information pertaining to any prior surgeries.

Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (Nuclear Stress test)

Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI), is also known as a Nuclear Medicine Cardiac Stress test. It is done to determine how well the coronary arteries are delivering blood to your heart. We will be able to determine if a particular artery is blocked and therefore limiting the circulation to your heart. It will also assess the heart wall motion and ejection fraction, and determine if the heart muscle has been damaged from a previous heart attack. All of this information will assist your physician in making management and treatment decisions.

We kindly ask that you arrive slightly in advance of your given appointment time.

Before the Test:
- Patient may have a light breakfast/lunch (e.g. toast, jam, fruit, juice, water) and then fasting for 3 hours prior to the test. Patient can drink water prior to the test without restriction. Insulin-dependent diabetics, please check with your physician regarding the discontinuation of any medications.
- Discontinue all caffeine products 12 hours prior to the test. This includes all tea, coffee, decaffeinated tea/coffee, pop, chocolate, Tylenol 1, 2 & 3, Lenoltec, and/or medications containing caffeine.
- Wear loose fitting clothing (e.g. T-shirt, track pants, athletic shoes, etc.)
- Bring a list of all current prescription medications and check with your physician regarding the discontinuation of any heart medications.
- Please bring a snack to eat once the test is completed.
- Discontinue erectile dysfunction medications 96 hours prior to any form of stress test.
During the Test:

This is a 2 part procedure. We will first administer a small amount of radiopharmaceutical and you will be required to wait 1 – 2 hours to allow it to localize in your cardiac muscle. The technologist will then call you to complete a 20 minute image of your heart with your arms held above your head.

You will then be moved to a stress room for the 2nd part of this procedure. The type of stress test (treadmill or pharmacological) your referring physician requested will be completed in the presence of skilled medical staff. You will be regularly monitored during this time. Should you have any symptoms during the stress procedure, our medical staff and physician will take the necessary measures to treat and assess your condition. When your heartrate reaches the targeted stage on the treadmill or the medication reaches its protocoled stage and we have adequate information, a 2nd radiopharmaceutical will be administered to allow us to image your cardiac muscle 30 – 75 minutes after the 2nd radiopharmaceutical administration.
After the Test:

You are encouraged to drink 3 – 4 cups of fluids and you may return back to your normal activities unless your physician tells you otherwise. If you are travelling by plane, train or crossing the border after your test, please inform the technologist.
What to Bring:

Bring your health card, list of your medications, a light snack/lunch and any activities you would like to keep yourself busy with while waiting for your images.
Duration:

The approximate duration is 3-4 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment. In some circumstance, this test will require the patient to return the next day

Note for all Nuclear Medicine Procedures: *For female patients, if you are pregnant or there is a possibility of pregnancy, or are breastfeeding, Nuclear Medicine Test may not be appropriate for you at this time. Please consult with your physician.

Nuclear Bone Scan

A bone scan is most commonly performed to detect areas of abnormal bone growth due to tumours, fractures, infection or other bone diseases.

Before the Test:
No preparation is required.
During the Test:
Nuclear Bone Scan is a 2 part procedure. The first part of this procedure may take 15 – 20 minutes where you will receive a small injection of radiopharmaceutical and a first set of images will be taken to allow us to capture the flow. You will be given a time by the technologist to return 2 – 3 hours later and during this time you are to drink 3 – 4 cups of fluid. Upon your return further detailed images of your bones will be acquired for 30 – 60 minutes.
After the Test:
You are encouraged to drink 3 – 4 cups of fluid and you may return back to your normal activities unless your physician tells you otherwise. If you are travelling by plane, train or crossing the border after your test, please inform the technologist.
What to Bring:
Bring your health card, list of your medications, a light snack/lunch and any activities you would like to keep yourself busy with while waiting for your images.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 3 – 4 hours.

Note for all Nuclear Medicine Procedures: *For female patients, if you are pregnant or there is a possibility of pregnancy, or are breastfeeding a Nuclear medicine test m ay not be appropriate for you at this time. Please consult with your physician.

Nuclear Medicine

A nuclear medicine scan is a non-invasive procedure that uses a small and safe amount of radiopharmaceutical to help produce detailed images of the body. The material is inserted intravenously, or swallowed and travels through the areas that are being tested. This will then allow the region of interest to be imaged under a detector (camera) and allow the information to be interpreted.

Before the Test:
There are many different types of nuclear medicine exams each with different methods of preparation. Consult your physician or the nuclear medicine clinic for more details on how to prepare for your specific exam.
You should avoid wearing jewelry or metallic items on your clothing to your test, as these affect the testing process.
During the Test:
Depending on the type of test, you may be asked to remove your clothing and put on a gown. A technologist or nurse may insert an intravenous line (IV) into your vein to administer the radiopharmaceutical. You may experience minor sensations due to the insertion of the IV
Once the radiopharmaceutical has accumulated in the region of interest, a gamma camera will be positioned to image the area and a series of images will be taken. You will be required to remain still, as movement will affect the scan. The time required for a nuclear medicine scan can vary greatly, from several minutes to several days. In some cases, you may leave and return when necessary.
You may also be asked to wait until the technologist checks the images in the event that more images are required. This does not mean that there are abnormalities in your testing, but only that better visualization is needed.
After the Test:
You are encouraged to drink 3 – 4 cups of fluids and you may return back to your normal activities unless your physician tells you otherwise. If you are travelling by plane, train or crossing the border after your test, please inform the technologist.
What to Bring:
Bring your health card, list of your medications, a light snack/lunch and any activities you would like to keep yourself busy with while waiting for your images.

Note for all Nuclear Medicine Procedures: *For female patients, if you are pregnant or there is a possibility of pregnancy, or are breastfeeding, Nuclear Medicine Test may not be appropriate for you at this time. Please consult with your physician.

Biliary Scan

Gallbladder and liver are primary focus of this test. Bile is produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. This test involves accessing the formation of bile within the liver which then follows the flow to the gallbladder which then empties into the digestive organs.

Preparation:
Nothing to eat to drink for 4 hours before the test • No G.I. barium studies within 24 hours prior to the test.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 4 hours however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Cerebral Perfusion Scan

This test is used to assess the brain function and measure the flow of blood to your brain.

Before test:
Do not consume caffeine, nicotine, narcotics 24hrs prior to test. Must remove all metal objects from clothes, hair and body prior to appointment.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 1.5 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Esophageal Transit Study

Esophageal Transit Study is performed to detect GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux disease) and refluxes as well as the function of the esophagus.

Before test:
Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to the test.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 1 – 1 ½ hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Gastric Emptying Study

Gastric emptying study is conducted to see how food empties your stomach.

Preparation:
Nothing to eat or drink 6 hours prior to test. No smoking on the day prior to the study and for the duration of the study.
During the test:
After ingesting a radiopharmaceutical egg sandwich, you will receive a series of short images every hour up to 4 hours and will be allowed to leave the clinic in between. You are required not to eat anything until your images have been completed.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 4 – 5 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Labelled Red Blood Cell Liver Scan

Labelled red blood cell liver scan is used to determine the internal function of liver. This test is used to detect hepatic hemangioma, which is type of tumor affecting the liver. Hemangioma is made of blood vessels.

Before the Test:
No preparation for this test
During the test:
The approximate duration is 3 – 4 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Liver/ Spleen Scan

This test is used to see the function of liver and spleen and detect any disease within these organs.

Before the Test:
There is no preparation for this test
Duration:
The approximate duration is 2 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Parathyroid Scan

This test is generally indicated to detect if there are indication of parathyroid adenoma.

Before the Test:
There is no preparation for this test
Duration:
The approximate duration is 3 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Salivary Scan

Salivary Scan is used to see the function of the salivary glands and to detect if there are any blockages

Before the Test:
No preparation is required.
During the Test:
Patient will need to drink small amount of lime juice during the test.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 1 – 1 ½ hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Thyroid Scan

This test is used to detect if the thyroid is overly active (hyperactive) and the function of the thyroid gland. A small amount of radiopharmaceutical is administered intravenously to image the thyroid gland.

Before the Test:
Consult your physician or the nuclear medicine clinic for more details on what foods to avoid, what medications to discontinue and how to prepare for your specific exam.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 1 hour, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Thyroid Uptake and Scan

This test is used to detect if the thyroid is overly active (hyperactive) and the function of the thyroid gland.

Before the Test:
NPO (nothing to eat or drink) 4 hours prior to testing on day 1 and NPO for at least 1 hour after ingestion of the pharmaceutical agent (capsule) Consult your physician or the nuclear medicine clinic for more details on what foods to avoid, what medications to discontinue and how to prepare for your specific exam.
Duration:
This is a 2 part test. The 1st part will take 30 minutes and you will be required to return 24 hours later. The 2nd part of the procedure will take approximately 2 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Nuclear Renal Scan

A renal scan helps to assess renal function, renal blood flow, urinary tract obstruction, and renal transplant assessment.

Before the Test:
Drink 1L of water one hour prior to appointment. Patient may void at any time. Consult your physician or the nuclear medicine clinic for more details on what medications to discontinue and how to prepare for your specific exam.
During the Test:
You will be injected with a small and safe amount of radiopharmaceutical to help produce detail images of the kidneys.
What to Bring:
Bring your health card, list of your medications, a light snack/lunch and any activities you would like to keep yourself busy with while waiting for your images.
After the Test:
You are encouraged to drink 3 – 4 cups of fluids and you may return back to your normal activities unless your physician tells you otherwise. If you are travelling by plane, train or crossing the border after your test, please inform the technologist
Duration:
The approximate duration is 1 hour, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Renal Scan with Captopril

Renal scan is used to evaluate blood flow to the kidneys and help detect hypertension and renal artery stenosis.

Before the Test:
Bring a list of all current prescription medications and check with your physician regarding the discontinuation of any ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists and diuretic medications. Patient to drink 1L of water 1 hour prior to the test on both days. The patient may empty their bladder at any point before or after the test.
Duration:
This is a 2 part test with the 2nd part booked 48-hours after the 1st procedure. The approximate duration is 2 hours on each day however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Renal Cortical Scan

Renal scan is used to evaluate blood flow to the kidneys and help detect hypertension and renal artery stenosis.

Before the Test:
Drink 1L of water one hour prior to appointment. Patient may void at any time.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 2-3 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Renal Scan with Lasix

Renal scan with Lasix helps to detect urinary tract obstruction.

Before the Test:
Drink 1L of water one hour prior to appointment. Patient may void at any time.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 2 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

PET/CT Oncology Scan
(Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography)

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanning is an exam that shows the function and structure of organs and tissues. Patients are injected with a glucose solution, known in the field as FDG (18-Fluoro-deoxyglucose). Cells that require more glucose (sugar) than normal will show up on the images to have an increased uptake. Cancer cells require more glucose than normal cells and scar tissue, which is why this type of scan is used mainly for oncology.

To improve accuracy of the interpretation, we have integrated a CT (computed tomography) scanner. The result is a fusion of two sets of images, one that depicts the functional images of biochemically active cells (PET) and the other demonstrates the structure of the tissues and organs (CT). The combination of images improves the interpreting physician’s ability to determine exactly where in the body the changes are taking place.

We kindly ask that you arrive slightly in advance of your given appointment time.

Before the Test:
Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water for 6 hours prior to your scan. You may take your regular medications. Do not chew gum or have breath mints/candies for 6 hours prior to your scan. Do not exercise for 48 hours prior to the scan, and minimize your physical activity the day prior to your PET scan. Wear loose, comfortable layers of clothing free of metal buttons/zippers.
If you are claustrophobic and require something to calm your nerves, please obtain this from your family physician prior to your appointment. Please also ensure you have someone available to drive you home following your scan if this is the case
*If you are diabetic, please contact us for the additional fasting instructions and restrictions on your diabetic medications.
During the Test:
Your blood sugar level will be measured using a glucometer.
A radioactive, sugar-based, saline solution will be injected intravenously, which will enter the bloodstream. You will then be instructed to rest for approximately 45 minutes to allow the solution to distribute throughout the body.
Once rested, you will be asked to lie as still as you can during the scan. The imaging process takes approximately 30 – 60 minutes. You will be able to communicate with the technologist throughout the scan.
After the Test:
You are encouraged to drink 3 – 4 cups of fluids and you may return back to your normal activities unless your physician tells you otherwise. If you are travelling by plane, train or crossing the border after your test, please inform the technologist.
What to Bring:
Bring your health card, list of your medications, a light snack/lunch and any activities you would like to keep yourself busy with while waiting for your images.
Duration:
The approximate duration is 2 – 3 hours, however please allow additional time for the entire appointment.

Covid-19 Safety

KMH’s ultimate goal is to keep our staff, patients and visitors safe and healthy. Whether it be the coronavirus, influenza or another infectious disease, our protocols are to help prevent and reduce the risk to our staff, patients and community as a whole. KMH looks to the Public Health and Ministry of Health regulations as the foundation for our safety protocols and screening guidelines.

Step 1

Upon entry, KMH will require all patients, employees and visitors to adhere to the following rules for the safety of everyone.

KMH Safety regulations:

Masks to be worn on the premises at all times (for exceptions please contact KMH)
Frequent Handwashing
Regular Cleaning and Disinfection

Step 2

Upon arrival, all patients will be asked a couple of screening questions to be assured your visit to KMH is safe for both patient and staff.

Are you experiencing any signs or symptoms?
Are you experiencing any of the following:

Coughing,

Sneezing,

Nausea,

Vomiting,

Diarrhea

Educational resources

Self- assessment tool

Covid-19 Testing Locations

Travel restrictions and advice during Covid-19

COVID-19 vaccines information (Ontario)

How to self monitor

How to self isolate

How to physically distance

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Heart Health Program

The Heart Health program was developed by Cardiologist, Dr.Arvinder Grover. Through his training in cardiac prevention and rehab, Dr.Grover has dedicated his career to preventing cardiovascular disease manifestation and/or progression thereby improving patients’ outcome.

KMH’s Heart Health program provides a multidisciplinary approach to lowering your risk of heart attack and stroke. Our team of Cardiology and Internal Medicine specialists as well as a dietician and nurse will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to help reduce your risk profile through lifestyle modification and medical intervention where indicated.

Our specialists will work with you to evaluate your daily dietary and exercise habits that may be increasing your risk. Common risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high stress, sedentary lifestyle and weight are key modifiable factors that negatively affect your health.

Preliminary medical testing will help to assess your risk and assist our specialists to determine the best and safest treatment plan for you.

The Heart health program is covered by OHIP and referrals can be made through your Family Physician or Nurse Practitioner. All results will be communicated to your healthcare provider.

Book an appointment with your healthcare provider to find out if this program will benefit you. For details about the program and to see if you qualify, please refer to the information below.

Do you have at least two of the following risk factors listed below that increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease?

Then this program would benefit you!

High cholesterol

High blood pressure

Sedentary lifestyle (less than 150 minute per week of moderate intermittent exercise)

Pre diabetes mellitus/Type 2 DM

Smoker

Overweight

Poor diet (high consumption of meat, eggs, cheese, breads, rice etc.)

High stress

Heart Health Program (Mississauga Location)

Additional resources

Do you know your cardiovascular age?

Heart and Stroke Canada: cardiovascular risk and prevention

Welcome to PocketHealth at KMH

Online access to medical imaging records!

Patient Enrollment & Access Click here >

Through an integration with PocketHealth, KMH now offers patients and their families access to their medical imaging records online. Once patients enroll for access they can view all their nuclear scans (Generals, Cardiology, PET) and MRI medical imaging history from KMH, share imaging electronically into their physician’s electronic medical record, or even burn to their own CD/DVD/USB from home.

Starting February 22, 2023, PocketHealth will be offering two membership tiers, Flex or Unlimited, at the time of enrollment which includes access to all previous imaging records, as well as any new exams patients undergo over the following two weeks. New records will be made available for access automatically for patients, with an email notification. Interested patients and families can visit PocketHealth to learn more.

Access your images by enrolling online or by completing the forms given by our KMH reception team at the time of your appointment.

Once enrolled, the PocketHealth website can be accessed at www.pocket.health. For any PocketHealth questions, please contact PocketHealth Patient Support directly at 1-855-381-8522 or help@pocket.health

Patient Resources

Quality service goes beyond what we do with our patients while they are in our care. It also includes how we can assist our patients after they leave our facility and for this reason we have created a few tools for you.

Our medication and blood pressure logs are convenient tools that were created for our patients to use at home to help them in their tracking process. These in turn can be brought with you to any follow up appointments you may have with your healthcare provider for their review.

In addition to these, we have tips on how to properly take your blood pressure at home. Following these tips closely will help determine a more accurate reading.

You will also find links here to various websites that can offer education on diabetes, nutrition, exercise, stroke prevention and much more.

Educational resources and tools

Blood pressure log

Medication log

How to Take Proper Blood Pressure at Home

Links for patient resources

Heart and stroke prevention

Hypertension Canada- managing hypertension

Diabetes Canada- resources

Canada’s Food guide

Canadian exercise guidelines

Exercises for seniors

Cardiac rehabilitation resources

Recommended Blood Pressure measurement devices (Hypertension Canada)

FAQs

Do I have to pay for parking?

Parking is free of charge at all locations with the exception of nominal parking fees at our Scarborough and Burlington locations. Our St. Catharines location provides validated parking.

Please click here to see locations >

Are KMH services covered by OHIP?

KMH services are covered by OHIP provided you are an Ontario resident with a valid Ontario health card and have been referred to KMH by a qualified healthcare professional.

Do your specialists offer virtual appointments?

Yes, KMH is currently offering virtual Cardiology and Internal Medicine consultations when needed.

Is there a cancellation fee?

To avoid potential inconvenient charges, KMH respectfully requests a minimum of 48 hours notice of cancellation.

Is there wheelchair access?

Yes, all locations are wheelchair accessible.

I have a referral from an out-of-province doctor, can I book an appointment?

Please contact KMH for specific details pertaining to your test and the Province you reside.

What are your hours of operation?

Most testing is performed between 7:30am and 5:30pm however evening and weekend appointments may be available depending on the type of test and the KMH location. Please call our booking centre at 1-877-564-5227 for further inquiry.
Call centre hours: Monday to Friday 8-7pm Saturday 9-5

I lost my health card, can I still come to my appointment?

Please contact KMH prior to your appointment to have your OHIP card number validated.

How do I obtain a copy of my images?

Through an integration with PocketHealth, patients can conveniently access their medical imaging records online by accessing the online form (www.mypockethealth.com) to enroll, or by filling out the paper form they are provided at the time of their registration at KMH.

Please click here for additional details.>

How do I obtain a copy of my medical records?

You may submit the request by filling out the Patient record request form, signing and emailing to info@localhost or faxing the request to KMH @ 1-877-564-3297

Please click to access form>