Nuclear Medicine • Gallbladder Scan

This exam is specifically designed to evaluate the gallbladder for inflammation or dysfunction. In preparation for this study, you must not eat for at least 4 hours prior to the start of the exam. You should not be taking or have taken any narcotic pain killers before this study.

After registering the technologist will come to get you for your study. You will be taken to the nuclear medicine department where you will be placed on a table for imaging. The medicine (radionuclide) is injected by the technologist into an arm vein and then images taken. Images are taken at 10 minute intervals for 60 minutes. In some instances, a second medicine is given which causes your gallbladder to contract. This medicine is given through an IV and a second injection is not needed. Some people have some discomfort with the administration of this medicine so don't be surprised. The overall test takes approximately 90 minutes and then you will be escorted back to the lobby.

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