Hepatobiliary (HIDA) Scan

Hepatobiliary (HIDA) Scan is used to assess gallbladder function. The test is usually performed for persistent or recurrent abdominal pain, particularly in the right upper quadrant. Occasionally it is performed after the gallbladder has been removed to see if the surgery was successful. The radioactive drug is absorbed by the liver and delivered to the gallbladder.

What to expect with your procedure

You will be asked not to eat or drink anything 6 hours prior to the exam. The study is usually done in the morning to limit awake fasting time.

Preparing for your procedure

You will be placed on a camera table and given an intravenous injection of a small dose of a radioactive drug. Imaging will begin immediately and usually lasts an hour.

Occasionally, you will be given a second injection to increase the diagnostic helpfulness of the exam. If this occurs, the exam is usually extended another 30 minutes or so.

You may return to normal activity immediately following the exam.