What is a biliary scan?
A Biliary scan is a test to detect certain diseases of the gall bladder. It provides information about bile production and drainage through the Biliary tract to the small intestine. It may be able to detect disease where other tests have been unhelpful.
What do I need to do before the procedure?
Make sure you remember to bring any previous films or reports to the appointment. Wear warm comfortable clothing. You will also need to:
- Fast for six hours - fast for 6 hours prior to the test. You may drink plain water only during the fasting period
- Non-diabetic medication - take them with plain water when you would normally take them
- Diabetic medication - if you take diabetic medication, contact the service completing the scan the day before for advice on what to do
- Advise of pregnancy or breastfeeding - let the service know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
What will happen during a biliary scan?
You will receive a small intravenous injection of a radioactive tracer and then pictures of your abdomen will be taken for about 60 minutes.
Depending on this result and why you are having the test, you may be need to receive a second injection called CCK. CCK is a naturally occurring hormone in your body, and is given by a slow injection over 3 minutes during which time further pictures of your abdomen will be taken.
What can I expect after my biliary scan?
There are no after-effects from having a biliary scan. Once it is finished, you can go home. You are able to drive immediately after the test. Your results will be sent to your GP or specialist.
If you are given CCK, some people may feel some slight discomfort in their abdomen or feel nauseous. This is usually mild and passes soon after the medication is given.