Gall bladder radionuclide scan

Definition:

A test that uses a gamma emitting tracer (radioactive material) to assess gallbladder function, and/or look for infected gallbladder or obstructed bile ducts.

Alternative Names:

Radionuclide - gallbladder; Gallbladder scan; Biliary scan; Cholescintigraphy

How the test is performed:

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

How to prepare for the test:

Food and fluids are restricted 4 hours (or longer) before the test. You must sign an informed consent form.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

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 no pain during the scan.

Why the test is performed:

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

What abnormal results mean:

cholecystitis (gallbladder infection)
infection of the gallbladder, ducts, or liver
cholelithiasis (gallstones)
bile duct obstruction
bile leaks or abnormal ducts (resulting from cysts, etc.)
biliary anomalies (abnormal anatomy of the bile system)
transplant rejection (after liver transplant)
liver disease
cancer of the hepatobiliary system

What the risks are:

There is a small risk to pregnant or breast-feeding mothers because the fetus or small child has a greater sensitivity to radioactive chemicals. Unless it is absolutely necessary, the scan will be delayed. The amount of radiation is small (less than that of a conventional X-ray) and is virtually gone from the body within 1 or 2 days. With increased number of scans, there is some radiation risk.

Special considerations:

Since this test is usually not performed unless there is acute pain, suspected gallbladder disease, or gall stones, many patients require special attention after the results of the test are known. If necessary, combined with other imaging (such as CT or ultrasound), the patient may be prepared for surgery following the gallbladder scan.

Review Date: 12/2/2001
Reviewed By: Evan Mair, M.D., Department of Radiology, Boston Medical Center Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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