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Gallbladder Series (Oral Cholecystogram)

An oral cholecystogram is an X-ray exam of the gallbladder.  This exam is usually performed when patients experience upper abdominal pain, nausea, chronic diarrhea or a chronic full or bloated feeling in the abdomen.  This exam shows the presence of gallstones, as well as gallbladder function.

Preparation:  You will be asked to take Telepaque tablets the evening before the examination.  Telepaque tablets contain the contrast (dye) material in tablet form.  As you digest the tablet, the iodine will enter into the  gallbladder for better imaging.  Your doctor or the radiology department will provide you the tablets and instructions.  You will also be asked to eat fat-free foods the day before your appointment.  On the morning of the examination, you will be asked to not eat or drink until the exam is over.  If you are diabetic, please advise your doctor or the radiology department of any allergies to iodine or shellfish you may have.

Procedure:  You will be asked to change into a hospital gown.  You will be asked to lie on either your back or stomach on the X-ray table.  The table will then be moved to an upright position.  The technologist will take a series of pictures with the X-ray camera and the fluoroscope.  The radiologist may take additional films.  You may eat immediately following the examination.   These films will be read by the radiologist who will send a report to your doctor.