Definition of Cholescintigraphy
Cholescintigraphy: A diagnostic test in which a
two-dimensional picture of a radiation source in the
biliary system is obtained by the use of radioisotopes.
Cholescintigraphy is done by nuclear medicine physicians to
examine the biliary system and diagnose obstruction of the
bile ducts (for example, by a gallstone or a tumor),
disease of the gallbladder, and bile leaks. For
cholescintigraphy, a radioactive chemical is injected
intravenously. The chemical is removed from the blood by
the liver, and secreted into the bile that the liver makes.
The chemical then goes everywhere that the bile goes-into
the bile ducts, the gallbladder, and the intestine. By
placing a radiation-sensitive camera over the patient's
abdomen, a "picture" of the liver, bile ducts, and
gallbladder may be obtained that corresponds to where the
radioactive bile has migrated.
Last Editorial Review: 12/6/2003
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