It lets a healthcare provider look at the bile ducts,gallbladder, and liver.
It is sometimes also called acholescintigraphyorhepatobiliary scintigraphy.
During this test, a tracer that contains a small amount of radioactive material is injected into the blood.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
Images captured during the procedure show how the tracer moves through the body.
The test gives healthcare providers a picture of how the gallbladder and liver are working.
It may take about an hour to complete.
This article looks at the HIDA scan, its purpose, and its risks.
It will also help you understand what to expect during this test and how to prepare for it.
This punch in of test isn’t usually done in pregnant people.
You should also let your healthcare provider know if you are breastfeeding.
This may also affect the decision to have this test.
Its important to tell your healthcare provider about any current medications or supplements you’re taking.
This typically takes between an hour and an hour and a half.
In some cases, though, it may take as long as four hours.
Be sure to ask your healthcare provider how much time to allow.
Any metal objects will also need to be taken off, including piercings.
It may be easier to leave jewelry at home.
You may want to consider bringing a book or something to do while you’re waiting.
Pre-Test
Before the test, you’ll probably be asked to complete some forms.
Once you’re comfortable, the technician will inject the tracer into one arm.
You may feel pressure or a cold sensation.
In some cases, other drugs may be injected.
This may include:
Morphine is a pain medication that may cause drowsiness.
Its important to stay still during this test so the images will be clear.
The tracer will pass through the body and be excreted in stool or urine.
If there is something unique about your situation, though, the healthcare team will let you know.
You should not have any side effects after the test.
The radioactivity of the tracer only lasts for a few hours.
It’s no longer radioactive by the time the test is over.
Drinking plenty of water will help the tracer pass out of your body more quickly.
If you received morphine, you should not drive yourself home.
Plan to have someone pick you up or call a rideshare or cab.
Interpreting the Results
A healthcare provider will explain the results of the test.
They will also let you know if you oughta take any next steps.
Its important to discuss your results with a healthcare provider so they can be put in the proper perspective.
During this test, a technician passes a camera over your body to follow an injected radioactive tracer.
The test can usually be completed in an hour or two.
You should be able to go home afterward.
Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you when they are available.
This nuclear imaging test gives your healthcare provider information about your biliary system, in particular the gallbladder.
A HIDA scan may help explain symptoms you’ve been having.
Its important to discuss the results thoroughly with a medical professional.
This will help you understand what future treatment or management will be needed.
Ziessman HA.Hepatobiliary scintigraphy in 2014.J Nucl Med Technol.
2014;42(4):249-59. doi:10.2967/jnumed.113.131490
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Gallbladder scan.
