Oral cholecystogram

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Cholecystitis, CT scan

Cholecystitis, cholangiogram

Oral cholecystogram

Definition:

Oral cholecystogram is an X-ray imaging procedure used to examine the gallbladder, a sac-like organ in the right upper abdomen that stores bile before it is released through the bile ducts into the small intestines to help digest fat.

Alternative Names:
X-ray - gallbladder; Gallbladder series; OCG; Gallbladder X-ray
How the test is performed:

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The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office by an X-ray technician. The night before the test, you swallow 6 tablets (one at a time) that contains the contrast medium. At the hospital, you will lie on the X-ray table and will be asked to assume various positions.

The health care provider may examine the gallbladder with a fluoroscope (a type of X-ray that projects the image onto a TV-like monitor). Then you may be asked to drink a high-fat formula that will cause the gallbladder to contract and release some bile. X-ray images will then be taken at timed intervals.

How to prepare for the test:

The health care provider must be notified if you are pregnant or allergic to X-ray contrast material.

The day before the test you will be asked to eat a high-fat meal (eggs, butter, milk, salad oils, or fatty meats) at noon. That evening, eat a low-fat meal (fruits, vegetables, bread, tea or coffee, and only lean meat).

Two hours after the low-fat meal, take 6 tablets, one at a time, which contain the contrast medium. After taking the tablets, consume no fluids until after the test.

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following:

Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

There is little or no discomfort from the test, although you will probably be hungry and thirsty. Some people experience side effects from the contrast material. There is a slight chance of developing diarrhea.

Why the test is performed:

The test is used to help in diagnosing disorders of the liver and gallbladder, including gallstones and tumors.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).