Hepatobiliary Scan

What is a Hepatobiliary Scan?

Hepatobiliary or Gallbladder Scans are used to evaluate upper abdominal pain, determine causes of jaundice and identify obstruction in the gallbladder.

What takes place during the test?

In conjunction with the nuclear imaging portion of the test, a limited Ultrasound evaluation of the gallbladder will be performed. Prior to beginning the nuclear test, the gallbladder size will be measured and its appearance evaluated to be used as a baseline. This will take approximately 5 minutes to complete. Following the ultrasound exam, a small needle or IV will be placed in the arm where it will remain in place throughout the test. You will then be injected through the IV with a radionuclide material and scanned for 1 hour. During the scan, you will lie on the imaging table with the camera positioned above or below you while several images are taken. At the end of the first hour of scanning, you will be injected through the IV with a material that should produce contraction of the gallbladder. This substance may mimic symptoms associated with gallbladder disease. After the injection, you will be scanned again for approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. If the gallbladder contracts satisfactorily, then the test is complete. If there is no contraction or limited contraction of the gallbladder at this time, you will be sent out of the office to partake of a fatty meal. When you return, your gallbladder will be re-evaluated with ultrasound in the same pre-test manner.

How long will the test take to complete?

Approximately 1 1/2 - 2 hours with the pre-test ultrasound. (If required, add the length of time it takes to have a fatty meal and post-meal ultrasound.)