Liver and Gall Bladder Scanning
Hepatobiliary (IDA Scan)
Demonstrates hepatic perfusion, hepatocyte clearance, hepatic parenchymal transit, biliary excretion and gall bladder function.
Hepatobiliary scans are used to:
  • Diagnose acute cholecystitis.
  • Evaluate extrahepatic biliary tract obstruction.
  • Evaluate post-surgical biliary tract.
  • Evaluate Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction.
  • Detect bile leaks.
  • Diagnose biliary atresia and other congenital anomalies of the biliary tract.
  • Evaluate liver transplants.
  • Investigate unexplained pain.
A renal scan is particularly relevant for children with recurrent urinary tract infection or reflux as it is very useful for identifying sites of renal cortical scarring or defects related to pyelonephritis.
What to expect
In order to get good images of the gall bladder you will not be able to eat or drink anything for four hours before this scan.
You may be required to consume a snack bar with a measured amount of fat (i.e. a Mars bar) during the scan to induce contraction of the gall bladder and help visualise the gall bladder emptying.
You should allow 1 and a half to 2 hours for this scan.  Occasionally a patient is required to return for a delayed picture 3-4 hours after the initial scan.
You will be able to drive and proceed as normal after the scan.

Document Downloads
Hepatobiliary Scan
(PDF, 635 KB)
Why a hepatobiliary scan? What preparation is required?
How is the procedure performed? What can it show?
Liver/Spleen Colloid Study
Demonstration of phagocyte system.
Used to:
  • Assess chronic liver disease.
  • Assess liver or spleen size and configuration.
  • Diagnose focal nodular hyperplasia.