What is HIDA Scan?

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the HIDA scan used for?

A HIDA Scan is used to evaluate the condition of your liver and gallbladder. HIDA scan also evaluates the bile flow from the liver through the bile duct to the small intestine. HIDA scan aids in diagnosing liver and bile duct-related diseases and conditions such as gallbladder inflammation, bile duct obstruction, biliary atresia, and in an assessment of liver transplantations. A HIDA scan is often accompanied by X-Ray and Ultrasound for better results.

How to understand the test results of the HIDA Scan?

After all the procedures of scanning are done, and the reports are evaluated, your doctor will interpret the results. The results are mostly stated as follows.

Normal: The tracer has moved freely from the liver to the gallbladder and the small intestine, indicating that there is no problem with your system.

Slow movement: The tracer moves slowly, which indicates blockage or obstruction in the bile ducts or the flow of bile is below optimum levels.

Not present: If the tracer is not present, this can indicate acute inflammation of the gallbladder.

Radioactive tracer found in other parts of the body: If the tracer is found in other parts of the body, it indicates a leak in the bile duct.

Why do I need a HIDA Scan?

The movement of bile through the ducts at a normal pace and conditions is important for our digestive system. Any abnormality in the bile duct, gallbladder, or liver needs attention. These problems are identified by the HIDA Scan. Issues such as gallbladder stone, bile leakage, cholecystitis, blocked bile ducts, and congenital problems are identified by the HIDA scan.

What happens during HIDA Scan?

You will be asked to fast for 4 to 12 hours before the test. First, you'll have to lie down and remain still throughout the scan. A specialist will insert an intravenous into your arm and inject a radioactive tracer. You may feel a slight coldness in the arm during the test, but that's normal. There are no side effects to this test that should worry you.

A technician will then position the gamma camera above your stomach to take images. The whole process of movement will take around 60 to 90 minutes. The technician and radiologist will control the camera and take pictures accordingly. In case of discomfort, breathing heavily also helps.

What is a HIDA scan used to diagnose?

HIDA Scan is used to diagnose diseases related to the liver and gallbladder, such as gallbladder stones, cholecystitis, and bile leakage. HIDA scans are also used to assist liver transplants.

Is HIDA Scan painful?

No, a HIDA scan is not painful. However, you may experience a minor discomfort such as a sting or pinch, as the IV is made in your arm. The overall process is painless, but some patients may feel pain in the abdomen region as the medicine stimulates the gallbladder to start functioning.

How long does a HIDA Scan take?

The HIDA scan takes around 60 to 90 minutes but in some cases, the time can stretch up to 4 hours also depending on the patient's complication.

Is HIDA Scan more accurate than Ultrasound?

As reports suggest, HIDA Scan is superior to Ultrasound as HIDA Scan has a higher sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy compared to Ultrasound. When detecting cholecystitis, HIDA scans are more efficient than Ultrasound.

What happens if HIDA Scan is abnormal?

If the HIDA Scan is abnormal, it means that the tracer has not passed through the gallbladder, and this is an indication of an infection, gallstones, or bile duct blockage.

Is a HIDA scan the same as a CT scan?

No, HIDA Scan and CT Scan are different. CT scan uses X-rays to capture the images, whereas HIDA scan uses a radioactive tracer to capture images. HIDA scans are better in detecting gallstones and bile duct-related problems. 

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