What is an Oral Cholecystogram?

This information is designed to help you understand the test(s) you will be having.

Please arrive at the medical center 30 minutes before your scheduled test time.

Your examination will be interpreted by a Radiologist (physician specializing in medical imaging). The Radiologist will dictate a report that states your exam results. The report will be typed and sent to your physician. You can make arrangements with your physician on how you will receive your exam results (such as follow-up appointment, calling the physician office, etc.).

If you have any questions, please call the Radiology/Medical Imaging Department.

An oral cholecystogram is a procdeure where films will be taken of your gallbladder with you lying on your stomach in various positions. A Radiologist may look at your gallbladder with fluoroscopy (x-ray television) for further study. You may be given some liquid to drink to cause the gallbladder to empty followed by more pictures.

PREPARATION:

The night before the exam, you need to eat a Gallbladder Test Meal (black coffee, tea, fruit, Jell-O and dry toast-- do not use butter or margarine), at least 2 hours before the gallbladder tablets are taken.

You need to take Gallbladder tablets (one every five minutes starting at 9PM) the evening before the exam. Usual dosage is one tablet per 25 pounds of body weight. Tablets are to be taken with as little water as possible. If you are unable to swallow tablets, Oragrafin granulates may be given. Dissolve granulates in a small amount of lukewarm water. Usual dosage is one packet. (One packet equals 6 tablets.)

Nothing by mouth until the exam is finished.

LENGTH OF THE PROCEDURE:

The procedure will take approximately 30-60 minutes to complete.

SPECIAL NOTES:

You will be asked to wear a hospital gown prior to and during the procedure.