The scan traces the path of bile from your liver to the small intestine. Bile, a substance produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, helps break down fats in food. HIDA scans are used to diagnose issues within this biliary system. A gamma camera tracks the path of the radioactive tracer, capturing images of the liver, gallbladder and small intestine.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Normal HIDA scan (Image credit: Loyola University Chicago<\/a>)<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n The HIDA scan is used to diagnose conditions of the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts. Here are some common disorders it can be used to detect:<\/span><\/p>\n Given the range of possible diagnoses, patients often wish to receive their scan results as quickly as possible. Typically, the finalized report is reviewed during the next follow-up appointment with your doctor. For those seeking faster access, <\/span>PocketHealth<\/span><\/a> offers a secure platform for viewing your results as soon as they are officially uploaded. This allows you to review your records and be better prepared for your discussion with your physician.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n Here are some helpful recommendations to prepare for your HIDA scan.<\/p>\n There may be preparations required before your scan, some of which you may need to discuss with your physician. Please consider the following factors:<\/span><\/p>\n If your doctor orders a HIDA scan with CCK, the process will be largely similar. The minor differences will be explained in the following section.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n CCK stands for cholecystokinin, a hormone that stimulates the gallbladder to release bile. This medication may be administered orally or intravenously, and it is not uncommon to experience mild abdominal cramping as a side effect. Typically, the technician will first capture some initial images, administer the medication and then take additional images.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Depending on the specific area being scanned, there may be minor variations in the procedure. However, you can generally expect the same basic experience. Initially, you will likely be asked to change into a medical gown and lie face up on a table. An IV catheter will be inserted into your hand or arm for the injection of the radiotracer. The gamma camera will then be positioned over your abdomen. As it captures images, it may rotate around you, depending on the type of machine used. You will be instructed to remain as still as possible during the imaging process.<\/p>\n The technician may need you to change positions periodically to obtain the best views. They may also administer CCK, if required, and continue taking images throughout the procedure. In some cases, morphine may be administered as well, as it can enhance the visibility of the gallbladder. If the image quality is deemed insufficient, you may be asked to repeat the scan within 24 hours.<\/p>\n HIDA scans can take between one to four hours, depending on factors such as image quality, the use of CCK, and the areas being scanned. If a painful physical condition is the reason for the scan, you may already be experiencing discomfort, which could potentially extend the duration of the appointment if you have difficulty remaining still. Inform the technician if you are feeling uncomfortable so they can make any necessary adjustments to accommodate you.<\/p>\n Some helpful questions to ask during your procedure:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n\n <\/p>\n Most patients can resume normal activities after the appointment, including driving and eating. It is advisable to drink plenty of fluids over the next 24 hours to help eliminate the radiotracer from your body, which will be expelled through your urine or stool, typically within a day. When using the toilet, flush immediately and wash your hands thoroughly to minimize any potential secondhand exposure to radiation from the tracer. Fortunately, the amount of radiation is negligible, so it is safe to be around others.<\/p>\n For patients who breastfeed, you\u2019ll need to discard any milk pumped within the next 24 hours to avoid exposing your baby to radiation. Consider pumping and storing extra milk before your scan, or use alternative feeding methods until it is safe to resume breastfeeding.<\/p>\n Please consult your doctor or imaging clinic for more specific post scan guidance.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Side effects from a HIDA scan are generally minimal, if they occur at all. Here are possible side effects that some patients may experience:<\/p>\n The doctor who ordered your HIDA scan will discuss the results with you during your follow-up appointment. Meanwhile, here are some common questions regarding the result process.<\/p>\n The turnaround time for results depends on the scheduling of both the scanning facility and your doctor. It can take anywhere from 24 hours to a week or more for the final report to be completed.<\/span><\/p>\n Your physician will review your results with you at your next appointment. In the meantime, <\/span>PocketHealth<\/span><\/a> provides secure access to your results as soon as the final report is uploaded, allowing you an early view of your findings.<\/span><\/p>\n A radiologist or physician specialized in nuclear medicine will interpret the results. Your referring doctor will then integrate these findings with your medical history, physical symptoms, and other tests to establish a diagnosis.<\/p>\n If you access your report through PocketHealth<\/a> before your follow-up appointment, you may find it challenging to understand the results. PocketHealth\u2019s Report Reader<\/a> helps by providing definitions for the medical terminology in your report. This allows you to have a more informed discussion with your doctor, as you will already possess a basic understanding of your results.<\/p>\n Here is a table of potential findings from your results:<\/p>\nWhat is it used for?<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.pockethealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/normal-hida-scan-1024x576.png\")
\n
\n\t\t\tEarly access to your HIDA scan results\t\t<\/h2> \n\t<\/div>\n\t
<\/h2>\n
How to prepare for a HIDA scan?<\/h2>\n
<\/h3>\n
Before your scan<\/h3>\n
\n
HIDA scan with CCK<\/h4>\n
During the procedure<\/h3>\n
![\"Gamma](\"https:\/\/www.pockethealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/hida-scan-machine-1024x576.png\")
<\/p>\n\n
\n\t\t\tFast and easy access to your HIDA scan results\t\t<\/h2> \n\t<\/div>\n\t
After your scan<\/h3>\n
HIDA scan side effects<\/h4>\n
\n
<\/h2>\n
Getting your results<\/h2>\n
How long does it take to get my HIDA scan results?<\/h3>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.pockethealth.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/pockethealth-patient-quote-1-1024x335.png\")
<\/p>\nHow long does it take to get my HIDA scan results?<\/h3>\n