What Is FibroScan® and How Does It Work?
7/6/2023
In years past, the only way to ascertain the health of the liver was by a surgical liver biopsy. Thanks to advancements in technology, doctors can now evaluate the state of the liver with a simple, nonsurgical ultrasound procedure called FibroScan. At Adult Gastroenterology Associates, our team of GI specialists offers this fact and effective examination to assess the condition of the liver and help safeguard your overall wellness. To find out more info about FibroScan testing and how it could help monitor your liver health, reach out to one of our locations in the Tulsa, OK area.
What is the FibroScan test?
FibroScan is a liver elastography that utilizes ultrasound technology to discover liver damage. This straightforward exam can detect scarring of the liver and liver stiffness. Liver scarring, known as liver fibrosis, may result from heavy alcohol use, a diet high in fat, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other factors. Fibrosis is known to cause cirrhosis (extensive damage and scarring of the liver). Late stages of cirrhosis may lead to weight loss, extreme fatigue, a decline in weight, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), cancer of the liver, and liver failure.
Where a biopsy of the liver typically requires several hours of time, some type of sedation, and an invasive procedure, a FibroScan test is generally completed in around ten minutes. This procedure is virtually painless, and you can get right back to your normal activities once released.
Why is the FibroScan test important?
Because of the serious concerns affiliated with damage to the liver, it is vital to consider your liver health with the utmost importance. This is where FibroScan comes in. Following the FibroScan process, our Tulsa, OK gastrointestinal specialists will use the data to detect and monitor liver issues, such as:
- NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease)
- Diseases related to alcohol consumption
- NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis)
- Hepatitis B or C
Furthermore, we can assess the extent to which liver damage has developed. This helps us develop a unique treatment plan to treat your needs.
How long does it take to get FibroScan results?
An additional benefit of FibroScan is your results are ready in a few days. The results of a liver biopsy may take up to two weeks to receive. With FibroScan, you can receive your test results sooner, which may allow you to start treatment right away.
After we get your results, our team of GI specialists will reach out or schedule a meeting to discuss your FibroScan readings. We will help you understand your exam results and what findings mean for your liver health and general wellness.
Is it possible to reverse liver damage?
If your test results show liver damage, there are various methods you might pursue to help reverse liver damage or defend against further damage. Simple steps you might take to boost the health of your liver include:
- Lose weight as necessary
- Avoid alcohol consumption
- Exercise every day
- Eat a high-fiber, low-fat diet
- Work with your team of doctors to change out medications as needed
Schedule a FibroScan exam in Tulsa, OK
A good way to prevent medical issues is to take control of your health. By undergoing simple, effective procedures such as the FibroScan, you can learn about your liver health and make changes before further damage occurs. At Adult Gastroenterology Associates, our GI specialists are proud to offer this advanced liver biopsy alternative. Schedule an appointment at a Tulsa, OK location in your area to learn more.