FibroScan® Transient Elastography
FibroScan® transient elastography is a painless, quick, and noninvasive diagnostic technique used to measure liver scarring, or fibrosis, caused by a number of liver diseases. This convenient, nonsurgical alternative to traditional liver biopsy is performed right in our office.
Your gastroenterologist may want to perform a FibroScan® test if you have one of the following chronic liver conditions:
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
- Genetic diseases, such as hemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease
FibroScan® works by emitting a small pulse of energy, which may feel like a slight vibration on your skin. It calculates the speed of energy to provide your physician with an immediate measure of the stiffness of your liver and gives an indication of your overall liver health.
This valuable tool helps assess liver health by measuring liver stiffness and fat build-up, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions that can greatly impact our patients' lives. By providing a non-invasive, quick, and painless assessment, it eliminates the need for more invasive procedures, like liver biopsies, in many cases.
The detailed data gathered during this procedure allows our Austin Gastro doctors to accurately evaluate the progression of liver conditions and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. With early detection and appropriate interventions, patients can manage their liver health more effectively, reducing the risks of complications and improving overall quality of life.
How to Prepare for FibroScan®
It is important to have an empty stomach for this examination. You should not eat anything for at least 3 hours prior to your appointment, although you may drink water during this time. You should prepare to wear comfortable clothing that will easily allow the provider to expose the right side of your rib cage. You will not be sedated for the study, so you do not need a friend or family member to drive or accompany you.
What to Expect
You will lie on your back with your right arm raised above your head. A nurse will apply a water-based gel to the skin and then place the probe on the right side of your rib cage, taking 10 quick measurements that will be used to establish an overall stiffness score. Once completed, the data collected will be sent to your gastroenterologist. The procedure takes about 15-30 minutes from start to finish.
Please note that FibroScan® cannot be performed on pregnant women or on patients who have any type of implanted electronic device. Your safety is always our first priority, and our physicians and GI care providers will ensure you receive the highest quality care for your specific needs. This includes finding alternative diagnostic tests and treatment options.
Top Gastroenterology Clinics in Austin, TX
Get a clearer picture of your liver health with FibroScan® transient elastography, a quick and non-invasive test that provides valuable insights without discomfort. At Austin Gastroenterology, our caring experts use this advanced technology to guide your personalized care plan. To schedule an appointment with one of our GI doctors, please send us a message on Klara or fill out our secure online appointment request form. We proudly serve our community from 18 convenient locations around the greater Austin area. Take the first step toward a healthier liver with our help today.
