medigest
fibroscan
What is Fibroscan?
Fibroscan procedure is a state-of-the-art, non-invasive procedure that measures liver stiffness and fat levels. It helps diagnose liver conditions such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease without the need for a biopsy.A long, flexible tube (colonoscope, sigmoidoscope) is inserted into the rectum, which has a tiny video camera at the tip of the tube. This allows for real-time visualisation of the lower gastrointestinal tract. The tube is also used to blow air into your colon, which makes the colon swell up a bit to improve visibility.
The Fibroscan device uses advanced ultrasound waves to measure liver stiffness. It’s a quick process that takes about 10-15 minutes and is completely painless.
- Lie down on an examination bed.
- A small probe is placed on the skin over your liver.
- Ultrasound waves measure liver stiffness and fat content.
- Results are displayed instantly.
The Fibroscan procedure is crucial for detecting and monitoring liver conditions like fibrosis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease. It provides early diagnosis, tracks disease progression, and evaluates the effectiveness of treatments, all without the need for invasive tests like biopsies.
- Monitors chronic liver diseases like hepatitis B and C.
- Detects liver fibrosis early.
- Evaluates the effects of treatments on liver health.
Who Should Consider Fibroscan?
Benefits of Fibroscan
- Unlike a liver biopsy, which requires needles and incisions, Fibroscan is entirely non-invasive. It uses ultrasound technology, making it a completely painless experience.
- The procedure takes only 10-15 minutes to complete. There’s no downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately after the test.
- Fibroscan provides precise measurements of liver stiffness and fat content, essential for diagnosing conditions like fibrosis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease.
- With its ability to detect liver stiffness at early stages, Fibroscan enables timely diagnosis and treatment of chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
- The simplicity, speed, and non-invasive nature of Fibroscan ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.
Preparing for Your Fibroscan Appointment
- Avoid eating or drinking anything (except water) for 2-3 hours before the procedure. This helps reduce interference from stomach contents, ensuring clear results.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your abdomen. This makes the procedure smoother and more convenient.
- You can continue taking your prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
- You can continue taking your prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, especially if you are pregnant or have a pacemaker, as these factors might influence the procedure.
Risks of Fibroscan Procedure
Fibroscan is safe and non-invasive, with minimal risks. Some potential considerations include:
- Mild Discomfort: A slight vibration or pressure during the test.
- Limited Accuracy: Less reliable in patients with high BMI, ascites, or certain medical conditions.
- Not Suitable for All: Avoided in pregnancy and with certain implants like pacemakers.
- False Results: Factors like inflammation or recent alcohol intake can affect accuracy.