Gallbladder Scan (HIDA Scan): Procedure, Purpose & What to Expect

What Is a HIDA Scan?

A hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan is a nuclear medicine test that evaluates gallbladder and biliary tract function, diagnosing gallstones, cholecystitis, and biliary atresia.

Procedure Steps

1. Radiotracer injection (IDA) into a vein; travels to liver.
2. Concentration in gallbladder – tracer accumulates in bile.
3. CCK injection – hormone stimulates gallbladder contraction.
4. Gamma camera imaging – tracks tracer movement through biliary system.
5. Position changes/deep breathing for optimal views (≈1 hour total).
6. Post-procedure – resume normal activities; tracer clears in days.

Your doctor will interpret images alongside clinical history to guide treatment.