What is a Cholescintigraphy?

A cholescintigraphy is a type of nuclear imaging procedure or test. The test may also be called a HIDA scan, which is an abbreviation for a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan. A cholescintigraphy is performed to examine the production of bile and the normalcy of its flow within the bile tract and to the liver, gallbladder and small intestine. This test may also be done to diagnose diseases and disorders. Individuals receiving a cholescintigraphy will generally receive some type of radioactive tracer to make the examined areas more visible.

Doctors may recommend this specific medical imaging test for numerous reasons, but especially for problems with the gallbladder. Bile, which is a fluid that aids in breaking down digested fats, is released by the gallbladder. Some conditions commonly diagnosed by this type of test include gallstones, obstruction and abnormalities of the bile duct, inflammation of the gallbladder and bile leakage.

Preparations for a cholescintigraphy can vary. Individuals scheduled to have this test should be certain they are knowledgeable of all prerequisites before the day of the medical imaging. Most physicians will ask that patients stop eating and drinking from a couple to several hours before the test. People who take certain types of prescription medicines should also find out if it will be necessary to change or stop the normal dosage in advance. Some doctors may give patients a special medicine to take in preparation for the test, which may help provide clearer results.

On the day of the cholescintigraphy, patients will arrive at the scheduled testing center and will most likely be asked to replace their clothing with a hospital gown. The patient may then be advised to lie on a table where he or she will be administered some type of radioactive trace, usually intravenously. The tracer will enter the bloodstream and be incorporated with the bile as it is transported through the body. While this is happening, numerous pictures will be taken with a type of gamma camera. The pictures give doctors important information about the individual's bile production, bile ducts, gallbladder and other organs.

Most patients leave the testing center and carry on with their usual activities following a cholescintigraphy. To get all of the radioactive tracer out of the system, it may be advised to drink extra liquids. Exactly when a patient gets the result of his or her cholescintigraphy can vary. Some individuals may get their results immediately after the testing process, while some doctors may need a day or so to prepare the results. If any additional medical treatment is needed after this imaging test, doctors will generally discuss possible treatments in detail and begin them promptly.