The value of HIDA scans in patients presenting with chronic right upper quadrant pain.

Abstract

When patients present with chronic right upper quadrant (RUQ) pain, ultrasound (U/S) is generally the primary imaging modality of choice for the visualization of the biliary system. However a hydroxy iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan is frequently requested, when the U/S is not successful in diagnosing the problem. The HIDA scan is a procedure carried out to diagnose gallbladder pathology, b1le leaks and/or any obstruction of the bile ducts. This research study was designed to collect U/S and HIDA scan results and then compare the treatment given in each case in order to assess if the examinations give similar diagnosis. Various treatments proposed by physicians/surgeons to patients presenting with RUQ pain were identified. The validity of the results given by the HIDA scan were further assessed by means of statistical analysis. The study was carried out on 42 patients who satisfied all the criteria stated within the study. The data gathering tool use in the study, was a table in which the gender, age, U/S results, HIDA scan results and treatment proposed were recorded for each patient. The study revealed that different types of treatment are being proposed, such as: performing an open cholecystectomy, discharging the patient without giving any further appointment for follow-up, advising the patient to follow a fat free diet, prescribing pharmaceuticals or discharging the patient without actual treatment but with follow-up. It was concluded that the treatment proposed was, in most situations, decided according to the HIDA scan results. This confirmed that the results given by the HIDA scan were significant and that it proves to be the best imaging modality for assessing the function of the gallbladder when compared to abdominal U/S.