FibroScan

FibroScan is a specialized, non-invasive medical diagnostic test designed to assess the health of the liver by measuring its stiffness or elasticity. It is primarily used to detect and evaluate liver fibrosis (scarring) and cirrhosis, which are common consequences of chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and alcohol-related liver damage.

How Does FibroScan Work?

FibroScan uses a technology called Transient Elastography. During the test:

• A handheld probe emits a painless, low-frequency vibration (shear wave) into the liver through the skin.

• The ultrasound measures the speed of the wave as it travels through the liver tissue.

• Since stiffer (more fibrotic) tissue transmits these waves faster, the machine calculates liver stiffness based on wave velocity.

• The result is expressed in kilopascals (kPa), providing a quantitative measure of liver fibrosis.

Why Is FibroScan Used?

• Assess Liver Fibrosis: To determine the extent of liver scarring without the need for invasive biopsy.

• Monitor Liver Disease Progression: To track changes in liver stiffness over time.

• Guide Treatment Decisions: Helps doctors decide on treatment plans for patients with chronic liver diseases.

• Screening Tool: Useful for early detection of liver damage in high-risk individuals.

Advantages of FibroScan

• Non-Invasive: Unlike liver biopsy, no needles or tissue removal is involved.

• Quick: The procedure typically takes 5 to 10 minutes.

• Painless: No discomfort or recovery time.

• Repeatable: Can be performed multiple times to monitor disease progression.

• Reliable: Provides immediate quantitative results.

Procedure Details

• The patient lies down with the right arm raised to expose the rib area.

• The technician places the FibroScan probe on the skin over the liver.

• Multiple measurements are taken to ensure accuracy.

• The results are analyzed and interpreted by a healthcare provider.

Limitations

• Results can be affected by obesity, inflammation, or excess fluid in the abdomen (ascites).

• May not fully replace biopsy in certain complex cases but serves as a valuable screening and monitoring tool.

Summary

FibroScan is a safe, quick, and non-invasive ultrasound-based test that measures liver stiffness to detect fibrosis and cirrhosis. It helps assess liver health and guide treatment without the risks of traditional liver biopsy.