HIDA scan

Cholescintigraphy — Cholescintigraphy (generically referred to as a HIDA scan) is indicated if the diagnosis remains uncertain following ultrasonography. This nuclear medicine examination uses a technetium labeled hepatic iminodiacetic acid (HIDA), which is injected intravenously and is then taken up selectively by hepatocytes and excreted into bile. If the cystic duct is patent, this agent will enter the gallbladder, leading to its visualization without the need for concentration. The HIDA scan is also useful for demonstrating patency of the common bile duct and ampulla. Visualization of contrast within the common bile duct, gallbladder, and small bowel occurs within 30 to 60 minutes (picture 3). The test is positive if the gallbladder does not visualize, which is invariably due to cystic duct obstruction, usually from edema associated with acute cholecystitis or an obstructing stone

Showing the visualized gallbladder, common duct and filling of the duodenum.

Courtesy of Salam F Zakko, MD, FACP.