What is a HIDA Scan?

A HIDA scan is a special test to check how bile flows from your liver to your small intestine. Bile helps in digesting fats. This scan shows how your liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts are working. It can also check how well your gallbladder releases bile. Doctors may also call this test cholescintigraphy or hepatobiliary scan.

Before the Scan

• Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything for at least 4 hours before your scan.
• Food for the Scan: You may be asked to eat a fatty meal during the scan to check gallbladder function. Ask the staff what kind of food to bring.

For Women

• If there’s any chance you are pregnant, please do a test before the scan.
• If you're breastfeeding, pump and store milk in advance. You can safely breastfeed after 24 hours.

Clothing

• Wear loose, comfortable clothes.
• Avoid jewelry.

What to Bring

• Doctor’s prescription mentioning the scan.
• All your medical records and allergy information.
• Reports of past tests or scans (LFT, Ultrasound, CT, MRCP, etc.).
• One friend or family member (only one is allowed).
• Home-cooked food for after the scan.

Time Required

The full scan takes about 4 to 5 hours. Most of this time is waiting while the tracer works inside your body.

What Happens During the Scan

• A small amount of radiotracer is injected into your vein.
• You’ll rest while it moves through your liver and gallbladder.
• The scan camera will take images at regular intervals.
• In some cases, you’ll eat a small meal during the scan.
• You’ll be monitored and guided throughout.

After the Scan

• You can eat, drink, and take medicines as usual.
• You’ll stay in the clinic for 30 minutes before discharge.
• Avoid close contact with children and pregnant women for the rest of the day.
• The tracer will leave your body through urine and stool in about 10–12 hours.
• Drink lots of water to help flush it out.