FibroScan® Testing for Liver Disease
Maintaining good liver health is important for one’s overall well-being, as the liver plays a vital role in filtering toxins, aiding digestion, and storing energy. Various conditions, such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis, can lead to liver damage or disease. Early detection and monitoring can help to prevent serious complications and ensure timely treatment. One advanced method for assessing liver health is FibroScan® testing, a non-invasive procedure that provides valuable insights into liver stiffness and fat content.
What Is a FibroScan Test?
FibroScan is a specialized ultrasound-based technology designed to measure the stiffness of the liver. This measurement helps in diagnosing and monitoring liver diseases such as fibrosis and cirrhosis. Unlike a typical liver biopsy that requires surgery, the FibroScan utilizes a non-invasive process to assess liver health. The device works by sending low-frequency sound waves into the liver, measuring how quickly these travel through the tissue. The speed of the waves provides our surgeons with an understanding of the patient’s liver stiffness, allowing them to evaluate the individual’s liver health.
Do I Need FibroScan Testing?
FibroScan testing is recommended for those at risk of liver disease or who have already been diagnosed with a liver condition. You may need a FibroScan test if you have:
- Chronic hepatitis B or C
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Elevated liver enzymes with no clear cause
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- High LDL cholesterol or low HDL cholesterol
Although many patients are unaware if they have fatty liver disease, they likely know if they have any of the above risk factors, which can ultimately help them get a diagnosis. To determine your candidacy for the FibroScan test, your physician will consider your medical history and any symptoms you are experiencing.
What Does the FibroScan Testing Process Involve?
The FibroScan procedure is typically quick, painless, and non-invasive. In preparation for your appointment, you will be asked to fast for a few hours to ensure the most accurate test results. To begin the process, you will lie on your back with your right arm raised behind your head. A water-based gel will be applied to the skin over your liver, and your physician will place the FibroScan device against your skin. Since the procedure utilizes ultrasound technology, no sedation is needed. The device will send a series of sound waves into your liver, which may feel like a gentle tapping. The entire process typically takes about 10 minutes. After your FibroScan test, you should be able to resume your normal activities right away.
When Will I Get My FibroScan Test Results?
The FibroScan device typically provides immediate results. As a result, our physicians are able to review the measurements and discuss the findings with you soon after your test, usually during the same appointment. The results will indicate the degree of liver stiffness, which helps in diagnosing the stage of liver disease you may be in, as well as planning the appropriate treatment for your individual case.
Learn More About FibroScan Testing
FibroScan testing at Suburban Surgical Care Specialists / Kane Center offers a state-of-the-art, non-invasive method for assessing liver health. Early detection and monitoring of liver diseases can significantly improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life. If you have risk factors for liver disease or have been experiencing related symptoms, contact us today to schedule your FibroScan test. Our board-certified general surgeons specialize in a wide range of medical specialties and can help you take a proactive step towards maintaining your health.