What is a Hepatobiliary Scan?
A HIDA scan (hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan) is an imaging procedure that uses an injected chemical called a radioactive tracer (radiotracer) and a scanning camera to evaluate your gallbladder. The scan is performed in the department of nuclear medicine in radiology. The HIDA scan tracks the flow of bile from your liver to your small intestine, which is known as the biliary system.
Your liver makes bile (digestive fluid) that helps your body break down the fat in the food you eat. Certain ducts (biliary ducts) carry bile from your liver to your gallbladder for storage. When you eat, your gallbladder contracts (squeezes) and releases stored bile through ducts into the first part of your small intestine.
If any part of this process isn’t working properly, the HIDA scan can help diagnose.
Need to Know
- Please inform the technologist if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- Tell your provider about any medications you’re taking, including vitamins and herbal supplements. Your provider may tell you to stop taking certain medications before your scan because they may interfere with the accuracy of the results.
- You’ll need to fast (not eat or drink anything except for water) for at least four hours before your HIDA scan. Your provider will let you know if you need to fast for longer.
Nice to Know
- The exam will take 1 to 4 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
What Will Happen During The Hepatobiliary Scan Procedure?
A HIDA scan procedure can have slightly different steps depending on which part of your biliary system your healthcare provider is evaluating.
In general, you can expect the following during a HIDA scan:
- You’ll remove any clothing covering your belly, and you’ll be provided with a gown
- You’ll lie on your back on an exam table
- A nurse or technologist will likely insert an intravenous (IV) catheter into a vein in your hand or arm for the injection of the radiotracer
- The technologist will place the scanning camera close over your belly
- When imaging begins, the scanning camera will take a series of images. The camera may rotate around you or stay in one position. While the camera is taking pictures, it’s important to remain very still. This helps ensure the best quality of images.
- You may need to change positions in between images. Your technologist will let you know.
- After the technologist takes an initial series of images, they may give you a medication that causes your gallbladder to empty. This may cause cramping in your upper belly. As your gallbladder empties, they’ll take more images.
- Once the technologist has taken the necessary images, which may take up to four hours, the scan will be finished.
How Should I Prepare For A Hepatobiliary Scan?
Clothing
Please wear comfortable clothing; you will be asked to remove any metal objects/jewelry before your scan.
Medications
Your physician may want you to stop using certain medications prior to the exam. Please consult with your physician about this.
Food and Drink
You may not eat and drink for 4 hours prior to the exam and you may not eat or drink anything other than what is provided to you during the exam.
What Are The Benefits And Risks Of A Hepatobiliary Scan?
The benefits of a HIDA Scan:
A HIDA scan (hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan) is essential for diagnosing specific issues in your liver, bile ducts, and gallbladder.
Risks you should be aware of:
- Bruising at the injection site of the radiotracer.
- Small radiation exposure. During a typical HIDA scan, your radiation exposure is about the same amount of background radiation the average person experiences in a year.
- Possible allergic reaction to medications containing radiotracers used for the scan. This is very rare.
Locations
Glastonbury Imaging Center
704 Hebron Avenue, Suite 100 (Access to building off Oakwood Drive)Glastonbury, CT 06033
Monday - Friday | 8:30am - 4:30pm
Weeknight appointments available for Mammography and MRI
Hours vary by examMore Information
