Cost Effective Modification of a Supine Exercise Bicycle for Arm Ergometry

Abstract

A quick, cost-effective modification of a supine bicycle table that enables patients to exercise with their upper extremities is described. This modification makes available thallium exercise scintigraphy to the patient population that is unable to perform conventional treadmill or bicycle exercise. Replacement of the bicycle footpedals with hand grips is both inexpensive and easily accomplished. Arm ergometry has been well received by patients, and good quality thallium images have been obtained without significant chest muscle artifact.