What is nuclear medicine for gallbladder?
Hepatobiliary nuclear medicine imaging helps evaluate the parts of the biliary system, including the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. It uses small amounts of radioactive materials called radiotracers that are typically injected into the bloodstream, inhaled or swallowed.
Is a HIDA scan serious?

Doctors believe a HIDA scan is safe, but there’s a small chance of side effects. These include a rash or bruising at the site of the chemical injection. You could also have an allergic reaction to this chemical or the other medications you received during the scan.
What can be diagnosed with a HIDA scan?
A HIDA scan might help in the diagnosis of several diseases and conditions, such as:
- Gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)
- Bile duct obstruction.
- Congenital abnormalities in the bile ducts, such as biliary atresia.
- Postoperative complications, such as bile leaks and fistulas.
- Assessment of liver transplant.
How long does a nuclear gallbladder test take?
A computer displays images of where the tracer is found in the organs. Images are taken every 5 to 15 minutes. Most of the time, the test takes about 1 hour. At times, it can take up to 4 hours.

Can I drive home after a HIDA scan?
Plan for a responsible adult who can take you home after the scan. This person may drive you, or ride with you on a bus or taxi. You cannot drive yourself or take a bus or taxi by yourself. This is because we may give you a small dose of morphine to help us take pictures of your gall bladder.
What are the symptoms of a high functioning gallbladder?
Symptoms can include upper abdominal pain after eating, nausea, bloating, and indigestion. Eating a fatty meal may trigger symptoms. There are usually no gallstones in the gallbladder with biliary dyskinesia.
When should gallbladder be removed?
You may need gallbladder surgery if you have pain or other symptoms caused by gallstones — small stones that can form in the gallbladder. They can block the flow of bile and irritate the gallbladder. Common symptoms of gallbladder problems include: Indigestion, with bloating, heartburn, and gas.
Is gallbladder surgery high risk?
Summary: Even a minor surgery such as a laparoscopic gallbladder removal can prove to be a high-risk and even fatal procedure for frail patients, according to new research.
What is the purpose of a gallbladder nuclear medicine scan?
Normal. The radioactive tracer moved freely with the bile from your liver into your gallbladder and small intestine.
How to become a nuclear medicine?
Education. Nuclear medicine technologists often need an Associate Degree in Nuclear Medicine Technology.
What to expect during a nuclear medicine scan?
During a nuclear medicine imaging procedure, doctors give patients radiopharmaceuticals. Depending on the type of medical examination they can be breathed in (inhaled), injected, or swallowed. Once the radiopharmaceutical is given, the patient is usually asked to lie down on a table.
What is a gallbladder nuclear medicine scan?
hotwww.hoag.org. A gallbladder nuclear medicine scan can assess gallbladder function. It is used to detect abnormalities of the gallbladder and to diagnose blockages of the duct that leads from the gallbladder to the small intestine or to assess inflammation (cholecystitis).