Gallbladder radionuclide scan

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Gallbladder

Gallbladder radionuclide scan

Gallbladder radionuclide scan is a test that uses a gamma emitting tracer (radioactive material) to check gallbladder function, or look for an infected gallbladder or obstructed bile ducts.

Radionuclide - gallbladder; Gallbladder scan; Biliary scan; Cholescintigraphy

First, the tracer (a radioactive chemical that will collect primarily in the liver and then is excreted with bile into the gallbladder) is injected into a vein (usually at the bend in the arm). The scan is then performed.

You lie face up on a table under the scanning camera (gamma scintillation camera). The scanner will detect the gamma rays being emitted from the tracer. The image of where the tracer is found in the organs is transmitted to a computer. The computer displays the image on the monitor and saves the information for future reference. A technician will operate the computer and scanner and will monitor the findings.

The test will take about 1 - 2 hours. Images take about 1 minute to acquire and are taken every 5 - 10 minutes for the first half hour and every 15 minutes during the next 90 minutes if needed.

If, after a certain amount of time, the gallbladder can't be seen, the doctor may give you a small injection of morphine, which can help to move the radionuclide into the gallbladder. While the amount of morphine given is small, you may feel tired after the exam.

You will be instructed not to eat or drink anything for 4 hours or longer before the test. You must sign an informed consent form.

When the tracer is injected into the vein, there will be a sharp prick from the needle. After the injection, the puncture site may be sore. There is normally no pain during the scan.

This test is very good for detecting acute infection of the gallbladder or blockage of a bile duct. It is also helpful in determining whether there is rejection of a transplanted liver.

Review Date: 08/03/2005
Reviewed By: Jonathan Gross, M.D., Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.