What to Know about FibroScan®

FibroScan, or transient elastography, is a noninvasive technique performed by medical professionals to study the health of the liver as well as identify conditions that might impact liver function. Conducted with ultrasound-based technology, this advanced medical assessment measures the volume of fat tissue in a person's liver (fatty liver condition). FibroScan testing also allows gastrointestinal (GI) specialists to analyze the amount of stiffness in the liver tissue. An elevated level of stiffness can denote the presence of fibrotic scar tissue, an inflamed liver, or additional concerns. If hepatic steatosis (a fatty change) or fibrosis of the liver is a possibility, the physicians at Adult Gastroenterology Associates in Tulsa, OK may carry out a FibroScan analysis to diagnose and determine the extent of the problem.

Why would a doctor order a FibroScan test?

GI doctors usually address disorders of the liver and might recommend a FibroScan analysis for patients with evidence of mild to advanced liver conditions. A gastroenterology specialist may advise FibroScan procedures for patients who demonstrate at least one indication of liver disease or injury, such as:

• Numerous forms of hepatitis
• Severe liver fibrotic scarring (cirrhosis)
• Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Syndrome X

What can I expect during FibroScan testing?

FibroScan procedures are performed at Adult Gastroenterology Associates in Tulsa, OK and may be advised as an alternative to a biopsy of the liver. These tests are routinely carried out alongside other types of imaging tests or lab tests to thoroughly check for a liver condition. Throughout the assessment, patients are asked to lie flat on a treatment table. The ultrasound technologist then glides the FibroScan ultrasound probe on the right upper abdominal area, just below the ribs. A series of pulses is sent directly into the liver, determining the velocity at which ultrasound waves move through the organ. FibroScan tests normally take approximately 15 minutes or so to complete and are generally comfortable.

Interpreting FibroScan outcomes

After FibroScan assessments are complete, the scores will be relayed to the provider who recommended the assessment. The test produces a numbered output that indicates the level of fat within the liver, also referred to as a CAP (controlled attenuation parameter) result, as well as a fibrosis score.

-The FibroScan controlled attenuation parameter result is evaluated in decibels per meter and helps ascertain the extent of fat in a person's liver. An elevated CAP score means a higher grade of steatosis and a higher grade of fatty liver disease.

-The fibrosis outcome provides information on the extent of fibrotic scarring (fibrosis) within the liver, ranging from zero to moderate or late-stage liver scarring (cirrhosis).

A subsequent appointment with the GI specialist will be planned to view and discuss the test findings. Recommendations for treatment or ways to alter lifestyle activities will then be given in accordance with the unique situation of each patient. Secondary FibroScan procedures may be carried out on a routine basis to check the state of the liver or to determine whether a liver problem has advanced.

Get more information on FibroScan in Tulsa, OK

As the second largest organ in your body, the liver fulfills a vital role in your systemic well-being. A fatty liver and scarring may affect numerous aspects of your total health, from causing fatigue and bloating to elevating your risk of liver failure and liver cancer. The highly trained staff at Adult Gastroenterology Associates in Tulsa, OK performs noninvasive transient elastography testing to identify the existence of fat in the liver or fibrosis of the liver. For further details on FibroScan testing or to schedule a visit with a skilled GI specialist, please contact Adult Gastroenterology Associates today.