HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Gallbladder Scan
Results
A gallbladder scan is a special Reference nuclear scanning test that is done to check Reference gallbladder Opens New Window 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 (Reference duodenum Opens New Window). |
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The gallbladder is normal in size, shape, and location. |
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| Abnormal: |
The tracer may not be removed normally from the bloodstream by the liver, meaning possible liver disease. |
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The gallbladder does not contract or empty normally. |
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The tracer may not reach the gallbladder, meaning inflammation or blockage of the duct by a Reference gallstone Opens New Window. |
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The tracer may not reach the beginning of
the small intestine (duodenum), meaning blockage of a bile duct by a stone,
a tumor, infection, or inflammation of the
Reference pancreas Opens New Window. See a picture of a
Reference gallbladder scan Opens New Window Reference |
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Pain occurs when the gallbladder empties the tracer. |
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference October 17, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Howard Schaff, MD - Diagnostic Radiology |
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