BILIARY SCAN Meaning and
Definition
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A biliary scan is a diagnostic imaging technique used to evaluate the functioning and structure of the biliary system, which includes the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. This non-invasive procedure provides valuable information about the flow of bile from the liver to the small intestine for digestion and absorption of fats.
During a biliary scan, a small amount of a radioactive tracer is injected intravenously into the patient's bloodstream, where it is transported to the liver and excreted into the bile. The tracer emits gamma rays that are detected by a gamma camera, which generates detailed images of the biliary system.
The scan helps identify abnormalities such as bile duct obstructions, inflammation, or gallbladder dysfunction. It can assist in diagnosing various conditions including cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), cholelithiasis (gallstones), biliary strictures (narrowing of the bile ducts), and gallbladder cancer.
The biliary scan may involve two phases: a hepatobiliary phase and a gallbladder phase. The hepatobiliary phase evaluates the liver's ability to produce and excrete bile, while the gallbladder phase measures the gallbladder's ability to store and release bile. This dual-phase approach enhances the accuracy of the diagnosis and provides a comprehensive assessment of the biliary system's function.
Biliary scans are considered safe and generally well-tolerated. However, as with any diagnostic procedure involving radioisotopes, there is a minimal risk associated with radiation exposure. The results of a biliary scan can help doctors make informed decisions regarding the management and treatment of biliary disorders.
Common Misspellings for BILIARY SCAN
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Etymology of BILIARY SCAN
The word "biliary" comes from the Latin term "bilis", which means "bile". Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. The suffix "-ary" in "biliary" indicates "related to" or "pertaining to". Therefore, "biliary" relates to the bile or the bile ducts.
The term "scan" originates from the Middle English word "scannen", which means "to examine". It further traces its roots back to the Old Norse word "skanna", meaning "to make a brief incision". In the medical context, "scan" refers to a diagnostic procedure where various imaging techniques are used to examine the internal structures of the body.
Thus, the etymology of "biliary scan" essentially refers to a medical imaging procedure that examines the bile or the bile ducts.
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