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Oral cholecystogram

• Overview
• Risks

Definition:

Oral cholecystogram is an x-ray of the gallbladder, an organ in the right upper abdomen that stores bile . The x-ray is taken before the gallbladder releases bile.

Alternative Names:

X-ray - gallbladder; Gallbladder series; OCG; Gallbladder x-ray

How the test is performed:

The test is done 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 six tablets (one at a time), which contain a special dye (contrast medium) that helps the gallbladder area show up better on the images.

At the hospital, you will lie on the x-ray table and will be asked to change position from time to time.

The health care provider may look at your gallbladder with a fluoroscope, an x-ray that can be immediately seen on a TV-like monitor. Then you may be asked to drink a high-fat liquid that will cause the gallbladder to contract and release some bile. X-ray images will be taken at timed intervals.

How to prepare for the test:

Tell your doctor 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, or fatty meats) at noon. That evening, you should eat a low-fat meal (fruits, vegetables, bread, tea or coffee, and only lean meat).

Two hours after the low-fat meal, take the six tablets, one at a time. After taking the tablets, do not drink anything 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: 1/24/2007
• Reviewed By: Stuart Bentley-Hibbert, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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