Patient Blog

Everything You Should Know About Getting a HIDA Scan

Updated on: September 9, 2024 | PocketHealth
Gamma camera machine

If your medical provider has scheduled you for a HIDA scan, you may be wondering what to expect. This guide will demystify the HIDA scan process, from understanding the procedure and the conditions it can help diagnose to how long it takes and how to prepare. We’ll also explore what your results could mean and answer common questions to ensure you’re fully informed before your appointment.

 

What is a HIDA scan?

HIDA stands for hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid. A HIDA scan is used to detect conditions affecting the gallbladder, bile ducts and liver. This procedure is also known as hepatobiliary scintigraphy or cholescintigraphy. The method involves introducing a radioactive tracer into the patient’s bloodstream via injection. The tracer then travels through the body, reaching the liver, gallbladder and small intestine.

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.

 

What is it used for?

A normal HIDA scan

Normal HIDA scan (Image credit: Loyola University Chicago)

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:

  • Bile duct obstructions: This occurs when a blockage in the duct disrupts the flow of bile, leading to various issues. The most common cause of such blockages is gallstones, which are hardened deposits of bile.
  • Congenital bile duct problems: Abnormalities in the bile duct can be present from birth, leading to dysfunction. A common example is biliary atresia, a condition in which the bile ducts in infants are blocked or scarred, resulting in liver damage if not treated.
  • Inflammation of the gallbladder: This can occur when gallstones obstruct the bile duct or when there are other blockages or reduced blood flow to the area. The medical term for this condition is cholecystitis. It can also be caused by tumors, infections, or severe illnesses.
  • Postoperative problems: Post-surgical complications may include fistulas, which are abnormal connections or passageways between body parts, as well as bile leaks. 
  • Liver transplant assessment: HIDA scans enable medical providers to assess whether a transplanted liver is functioning properly.
  • Sphincter dysfunction: The sphincter of Oddi is a valve in the digestive tract that regulates the flow of bile and other digestive fluids. If it does not open properly, it can result in pain and a backup of bile and similar fluids.

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, PocketHealth 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.

 

Early access to your HIDA scan results

How to prepare for a HIDA scan?

Here are some helpful recommendations to prepare for your HIDA scan.

Before your scan

There may be preparations required before your scan, some of which you may need to discuss with your physician. Please consider the following factors:

  • Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding: Physicians often prefer to postpone HIDA scans to protect the fetus and to prevent contamination of breast milk with radionuclide.
  • Discuss medications and supplements you’re taking: Certain vitamins, supplements, and medications may affect the accuracy of the scan. Inform your doctor in advance so you have adequate time to discontinue them if necessary.
  • Ask your doctor for fasting recommendations: Generally, you will need to refrain from eating or drinking anything for 4-6 hours prior to your scan, including chewing gum. However, there may be variations, such as a longer fasting period or the allowance of certain liquids. Be sure to ask your doctor.
  • For infants, discuss pretreatment with their pediatrician: If your baby is undergoing the scan, their pediatrician may provide specific preparatory instructions or treatments beforehand.
  • Leave all metallic items at home: This includes jewelry, piercings, and similar items. If you have metal medical implants, such as a pacemaker, inform your provider in advance.
  • Let your provider know if you’re claustrophobic: While the gamma camera machine used for the scan is not enclosed, some patients may still experience feelings of claustrophobia due to the close proximity of the equipment. If you are prone to claustrophobia, make arrangements with your provider in advance.
  • If morphine is to be administered, have a ride home prepared: Morphine is sometimes used to improve image quality. Some patients may experience drowsiness and impaired driving ability as a result. If applicable, arrange for a ride home before your appointment.
  • Bring your requisition forms and I.D. cards to your appointment: Although the facility may already have this information, it is helpful to bring your requisition form, identification card, and insurance card to your appointment. If the facility does not have this information on file, having these documents helps prevent delays.

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.

 

HIDA scan with CCK

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.

 

During the procedure

Gamma camera machine

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.

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.

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.

Some helpful questions to ask during your procedure:

  • Will you be using CCK during the scan?
  • How long will it take to get my results?
  • Will I be receiving morphine?
  • How long do you think my scan will take?

 

Fast and easy access to your HIDA scan results

 

After your scan

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.

For patients who breastfeed, you’ll 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.

Please consult your doctor or imaging clinic for more specific post scan guidance.

 

HIDA scan side effects

Side effects from a HIDA scan are generally minimal, if they occur at all. Here are possible side effects that some patients may experience:

  • Minor bruising from the injection of the radiotracer
  • Rarely, an allergic reaction to medications used during the scan. Inform your doctor beforehand of any known allergies
  • If CCK is administered, you may feel some minor abdominal cramping and nausea. This usually resolves quickly
  • If morphine is given, you may feel drowsy or dizzy temporarily. Be sure to plan a ride home in advance

Getting your results

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.

How long does it take to get my HIDA scan results?

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.

Your physician will review your results with you at your next appointment. In the meantime, PocketHealth provides secure access to your results as soon as the final report is uploaded, allowing you an early view of your findings.

A patient talks about PocketHealth

How long does it take to get my HIDA scan results?

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.

If you access your report through PocketHealth before your follow-up appointment, you may find it challenging to understand the results. PocketHealth’s Report Reader 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.

Here is a table of potential findings from your results:

Results

What this means

Normal

The radiotracer traveled normally from your liver to your gallbladder and then your small intestine.

Slow movement of radiotracer 

The radiotracer moved through your body more slowly than typical baselines. This could suggest potential liver issues or blockages.

No radiotracer seen

This may indicate gallbladder inflammation, potentially resulting from a blockage. This is called acute cholecystitis.

Low gallbladder ejection fraction

If your gallbladder releases an unusually small amount of bile after being stimulated with CCK, it may indicate chronic cholecystitis.

Radiotracer found in other areas of the body

If the radiotracer is found outside your biliary system, it may suggest an internal leak in your bile ducts.

Following up with your physician

It can be beneficial to prepare thoughtful questions for your follow-up appointment. Time with physicians is often limited, and being well-prepared allows you to use your time more productively. PocketHealth’s MyCare Navigator is a useful tool for appointment preparation. It generates personalized questions based on your report, providing a guide for what to ask. Additionally, it recommends follow-up steps, when needed, which you can discuss with your provider.

Frequently asked questions

Here is additional information on what to expect during and after your scan.

Can I use my phone during the procedure?

Most scanning facilities permit the use of smartphones, earphones and tablets, which is helpful given that the scan can last up to four hours. Some establishments even provide options for music or entertainment that you can select.

Is a HIDA scan painful?

There may be minor discomfort from the IV injection or from the CCK, if applicable. Some patients might also experience difficulties lying still on the table due to physical restrictions or prior conditions. The exam itself, however, is not painful.

Will I need a sedative?

If you are prone to claustrophobia, you may need a mild sedative, even though the gamma camera machine is not enclosed. Discuss this with your provider to make any necessary arrangements before your appointment.

Will I feel tired after the scan?

The scan itself will not make you feel tired. However, if you were sedated or administered morphine, this could cause mild drowsiness.

Will I feel sick after the scan?

Usually, patients feel fine after their HIDA scan. However, if you were given CCK, you might experience some mild, lingering nausea. Morphine can also contribute to minor nausea. Let your technician know if you’re feeling unwell by the end of the scan, as they can provide recommendations.

 

Be prepared, informed and proactive with PocketHealth

Staying informed and educated helps you communicate your needs more effectively with your physician, leading to more productive appointments. PocketHealth makes it easy to securely access your reports, so you can review them anytime or share them with specialists and other physicians involved in your health journey.

 

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