What is a HIDA Scan?
A Hepatobiliary Iminodiacetic Acid (HIDA) scan is a specialized imaging procedure used to evaluate the health and function of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and small intestine. In pediatric patients, it helps diagnose conditions related to these organs that might not be easily detectable through other diagnostic methods.
The scan is particularly valuable when other imaging modalities like ultrasound or MRI have not provided conclusive results.
A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected intravenously into the child.
The tracer travels through the bloodstream to the liver, where it is taken up by hepatocytes and eventually excreted into the bile ducts.
A gamma camera captures images of the tracer's movement through the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and small intestine over time.
The entire process typically takes between 1 to 2 hours. It's important to note that the amount of radioactive material used is very small and generally considered safe for pediatric patients.
Preparation for a HIDA Scan
Prior to the scan, specific preparations may be necessary: The child may need to fast for several hours to ensure the gallbladder is empty.
Detailed medical history and current medications should be discussed with the healthcare provider.
Parents should explain the procedure to the child to help alleviate any anxiety.
What Can Parents Expect During and After the Scan?
During the scan, the child will lie still on a table while the gamma camera takes images. Parents are usually allowed to stay in the room to provide comfort. After the scan, normal activities can typically be resumed unless otherwise advised by the healthcare provider. Results are often available within a few days and will be discussed in a follow-up appointment.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
While a HIDA scan is generally safe, there are some potential
risks and side effects:
Allergic reaction to the radioactive tracer (rare)
Discomfort at the injection site
Very low exposure to radiation
It is important to weigh these risks against the diagnostic benefits, particularly when other imaging modalities have failed to provide clear answers.
Interpretation of HIDA Scan Results
The images obtained from the HIDA scan can provide valuable information: Normal results indicate proper functioning of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and small intestine.
Abnormal results can indicate conditions such as bile duct obstruction, biliary atresia, or gallbladder dysfunction.
A pediatric radiologist will interpret the results and provide a detailed report to the referring physician, who will then discuss the findings with the parents and outline the next steps.
Conclusion
A HIDA scan is a valuable diagnostic tool in pediatric medicine, particularly for assessing the biliary system. While the procedure involves minimal risks, its ability to provide detailed functional imaging makes it indispensable for diagnosing complex conditions. Parents should discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider to ensure they fully understand the procedure and its implications for their child's health.
