Diagnostics·Diagnostics
HIDA scan preparation
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A HIDA scan (hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan) is a safe imaging test that checks how your gallbladder and bile ducts are working. It uses a tiny amount of a radioactive tracer to take pictures of bile flow from your liver to your small intestine.
Key facts
- You will need to avoid eating or drinking for 4 to 6 hours before the scan.
- The scan is painless and usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes.
- The radioactive tracer leaves your body naturally through urine and stool within a day.
Yes, HIDA scans are commonly used to evaluate gallbladder function, especially when someone has abdominal pain or other symptoms that suggest a bile flow problem.
Anyone can have a HIDA scan if their doctor suspects an issue with the gallbladder, bile ducts, or bile flow. It is often done in people with unexplained upper belly pain, especially after fatty meals.