Nuclear Medicine Exams - Hepatobiliary Scan

Nuclear Medicine Exams

Hepatobiliary Scan

What is a Hepatobiliary Scan?

A hepatobiliary scan (HIDA scan) is done to evaluate the function of the liver in making and excreting bile, and the drainage system (bile ducts) and gallbladder for possible blockage or malfunction. This will frequently be done together with gallbladder ultrasound for a more complete evaluation.

What does a Hepatobiliary Scan Entail?

You will lie flat on your back on the imaging table. You will receive an injection of a radioactive substance in a vein in your arm. This material travels through the bloodstream, and is eventually cleared from the bloodstream by the liver. You will not feel anything from this injection.

During the scans the camera will be positioned over you. Images will be recorded for up to one hour, or rarely, longer. For some patients, a second injection through the same single needle stick will be done later during the test. This can be done to either help the gallbladder show up better (using morphine), or to trigger it to empty (using CCK/cholecystokinin).

Is Any Special Preparation Required Before Having a Hepatobiliary Scan ?

You should have had nothing to eat or drink (NPO) for at least 4-6 hours before beginning the test. You can take your regular medicines with a sip of water.

How Long Will It Take?

About 60-90 minutes.

Will It Hurt?

No. Occasionally the injection of CCK later in the test will recreate the patient's symptoms, causing nausea or cramping, but this is nothing to be concerned about.

How Will I Learn the Results?

You may call your doctor to discuss the results.

If in any way we can be of further assistance to make your visit in our office more comfortable, please do not hesitate to ask any staff member.

If you are or suspect you might be pregnant, please tell your doctor, nurse or technician.

If You Want More Information.

Please feel free to call one of the radiology nurses at 968-1722.