Hepatobiliary Scan

What is the purpose of this scan?
A heptobiliary scan is performed to evaluate the function of the gallbladder and to determine whether there is an obstruction of the hepatic ducts.

How is a hepatobiliary scan performed?
An IV is placed in the vein of your arm. A small amount of a radioactive material is injected through the IV site. You will be asked to lie down on a table. A camera that can detect radioactivity will be positioned above your stomach to take photos. It is very important that you do not move during the scan.

If, after one hour, your gallbladder can be seen with the scanning equipment, you will be given a special medication called CCK that will provide information about how well your gallbladder is working. If your gallbladder can not be seen, you will be given a small dose of morphine, which will aid in visualizing the gallbladder.

The scan will take about 30 minutes to complete. If you receive morphine during your scan, you must have someone drive you home.

How do I prepare for this scan?
You must not eat anything for four to six hours before the scan. We recommend that you arrange to have someone drive you home after the test.

How will I feel after I have a hepatobiliary scan?
The radioactive shot will have no effect on how you feel. You may, however, feel some discomfort from the CCK or the morphine. This discomfort will not last long.

How soon will my doctor get the results?
After the procedure is complete, a nuclear medicine physician will study the pictures along with your medical history to make an assessment of what the images show. He will then dictate a report that will be forwarded to your physician within five to seven business days. If your doctor needs the results sooner, he/she may contact the nuclear medicine physician on the day of the exam.

How do I make an appointment?
Your doctor will write an order or prescription for the test. The doctor will either give you the order or have it faxed to the hospital. You may then schedule your appointment by calling the Nuclear Medicine Department at 847-723-5050.

If I still have questions, who should I call?
For more information about the procedure, please call the Nuclear Medicine Department at 847-723-5050.