Why is it used ?

Your physician may recommend a FibroScan test for the following liver conditions:

• Autoimmune Hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• Genetic Diseases (such as Wilson’s Disease and Hemochromatosis)
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• Alcoholic Liver Disease
• Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)

The specialized ultrasound-based machine measures scarring and fat buildup, called fatty change, in your liver. This non-invasive technique doesn’t come with the same risks as an invasive biopsy. No special preparation is required, except you may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours before the FibroScan. Your scan will be done within a few minutes, without any pain and you will be good to go.

How is the procedure conducted?

An ideal alternative to a liver biopsy, FibroScan is normally carried out in combination with other types of medical imaging or blood tests to get a comprehensive image of the liver’s condition. For the procedure, the outpatient will be asked to lie down on an exam table. A gel will be applied to your skin between the ribs on your right side.

The ultrasound technician uses a FibroScan ultrasound wand and places it on the right upper abdomen, just underneath the ribcage. A set of waves then goes straight into the liver by a small probe that the ultrasound technician gently moves on the abdomen to detect if there is any fibrosis in the patient’s liver. The entire procedure takes no more than 15 minutes.

What are the benefits?

• A better alternative to a liver biopsy, FibroScan offers a number of advantages.
• The procedure is 100% painless.
• It is the quickest way of assessing the liver’s health.
• The procedure is so convenient that it has replaced a more complex procedure called a liver biopsy.
• Offers accurate and reliable results to plan further treatment and medication for the patient.
• The Fibroscan can monitor changes in the structure of the liver.

What are the risks involved?

There are no major risks involved in the Fibroscan procedure.