Gallbladder Scan
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Gallbladder Scan
Results
A gallbladder scan is a special nuclear scanning test that is done to evaluate gallbladder function. The results of a gallbladder scan are available in 2 days.
| Normal: | The radioactive tracer flows evenly through the liver and then into the gallbladder and the beginning of the small intestine (duodenum). |
|---|---|
The gallbladder is normal in size, shape, and location. | |
| Abnormal: | The tracer may not be removed normally from the bloodstream by the liver, indicating possible liver disease. |
The tracer may not reach the gallbladder, indicating inflammation or blockage of the duct by a gallstone. | |
The tracer may not reach the beginning of
the small intestine (duodenum), indicating blockage of a bile duct by a stone,
a tumor, infection, or inflammation of the
pancreas. See a picture of a
gallbladder scan | |
Pain occurs when the gallbladder empties the tracer. |
Last Updated:
October 24, 2008- Author:
- Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
- Medical Review:
- Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Myo Min Han, MD - Nuclear Medicine
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