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:

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.

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.

Review Date: 1/24/2005
Reviewed By: Jeffrey J. Brown, M.D., F.A.C.R., Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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