How Does the FibroScan® Test Work and What is It?
7/6/2023
In the past, the sole way to identify the state of the liver was by biopsy. Because of new progression in the field, providers can now test the condition of their patients’ livers through a relatively easy, nonsurgical ultrasound procedure, FibroScan. At Digestive Health Associates of Texas, our GI specialists offer this rapid and advantageous examination to test your liver health and help you defend your general health. To receive additional information about FibroScan testing and how it can help establish the overall health of your liver, contact one of our many locations in Dallas, TX.
What is FibroScan?
FibroScan is a liver elastography procedure that depends on ultrasound technology to detect any liver damage in a patient’s body. This easy exam can discover scarring in the liver and liver stiffness. Liver scarring, or liver fibrosis, comes about due to excessive alcohol consumption, a diet that includes a lot of fat, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other factors. Scarring of the liver can result in cirrhosis (excessive damage and scarring to the liver). The late stages of cirrhosis might result in tiredness, unintended weight loss, jaundice, liver cancer, and, ultimately, liver failure.
While a liver biopsy would require some type of sedation, a surgically invasive procedure, and many hours of your time, FibroScan can usually be completed in about ten minutes. The procedure generally involves little to no pain and discomfort, and often you are allowed to get right back to your normal activities after being released.
Why is the FibroScan test invaluable?
Since there are several repercussions associated with damage to the liver, it is crucial to take the health of your liver seriously. That is how the FibroScan test can help. After completing a FibroScan, our Dallas, TX gastrointestinal specialists will review and use this information to detect and manage any established liver issues, such as:
- Hepatitis B or C
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Diseases associated with excessive alcohol consumption
- Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
In addition, we will also appraise the degree to which this liver damage has progressed. Checking this enables us to us put together a plan of treatment to help you.
How long can it take to get FibroScan results?
Another great advantage of FibroScan is that your findings are often ready in 1 – 2 days. The results of a liver biopsy may take up to two weeks, however. Thanks to the FibroScan, you’ll receive your test results quickly, which may allow you to start your treatment right away.
After we get your results, our gastroenterology team will call or meet with you to discuss the results. Our providers will ensure you thoroughly understand the results and what they mean for your liver health and overall health.
Will I be able to make changes to address negative FibroScan results?
If your test results show damage to your liver, there are several choices you can make to either reverse liver damage or halt the occurrence of further damage. Some simple steps you could take to promote your liver health include:
- Lose weight if you are overweight
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Work with your doctors to swap medications as necessary
- Begin eating a diet that is low in fat and high in fiber
- Exercise each day
Schedule a FibroScan in Dallas, TX
One way to stave off medical issues is by taking control of your health. By receiving quick, relatively painless procedures such as the FibroScan, you can quickly understand your liver health so you can make any changes prior to more damage occurring. At Digestive Health Associates of Texas, our team of GI providers is happy to provide this innovative liver biopsy alternative. Call a Dallas, TX location in your area to get more information.