Painless and Precise: The Benefits of FibroScan for Liver Assessment in Kolkata
It takes care of your digestion through bile production. It ensures that your body stays toxin-free, has a high metabolism, filters the blood, and even more. Yes, it is your liver—a crucial organ in the human body. Your liver requires attention, and when that falls short, you might experience symptoms like sudden abdominal pain and swelling, swelling in the legs and ankles, pale, bloody, or tar-coloured stool, dark-coloured urine, nausea, or vomiting. If you suffer from any one or multiple symptoms, you might consider getting a liver assessment or FibroScan done.
This blog seeks to highlight FibroScan's wonders by meticulously explaining its principles, applications, and revolutionary effects on liver disease treatment. Technological advancements in modern medicine are continuously changing the landscape of diagnostic tools.
What is a FibroScan Test and How Does It Work?
A straightforward, painless, non-invasive, and sophisticated method for evaluating liver health is the FibroScan. A probe is applied to the skin throughout the process. The "stiffness" of the liver is measured numerically using a mix of ultrasound technology, elastic waves from a mechanical pulse, and ultrasound. "Stiffness" may be a sign of liver fibrosis or scarring, which can result in cirrhosis and liver cancer.
FibroScan measures the amount of fat accumulation and scarring, or fatty alteration, in the liver using specialised and unique ultrasound-based equipment. Similar to other ultrasound exams, FibroScan is quick, easy, and painless. Additionally, it does not carry the same hazards as an invasive biopsy because it is non-invasive.
Why Choose FibroScan Over a Liver Biopsy?
FibroScan, or transient elastography, is a non-invasive procedure that makes use of ultrasound waves to assess the stiffness of the liver, which is linked with the degree of fibrosis. It is conducted externally without any needle pricks or cuts, and hence it is safer than a liver biopsy. It only lasts for a few minutes and doesn't necessitate hospitalisation or sedation.
A liver biopsy requires a needle to be inserted into the liver to take a small sample of tissue for microscopic examination. Although it is highly informative about liver tissue, it is an invasive test that has risks, including bleeding and infection. It could also necessitate hospitalisation and sedation, and the outcome could take days to obtain.
| Feature | FibroScan | Liver Biopsy |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Non-invasive | Invasive (needle insertion) |
| Procedure Time | Approximately 10 minutes | 30 minutes to an hour |
| Hospitalisation | Not required | May be required |
| Risks | Minimal | Risk of bleeding, infection, and pain |
| Result Availability | Immediate | Several days |
| Repeatability | Easily repeatable for monitoring | Limited due to invasiveness |
| Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
FibroScan is usually chosen for its non-invasive nature, fast results, and ease, making it ideal for frequent checks on the liver's health. Nevertheless, a liver biopsy may be advised in some instances where thorough tissue examination is required. One should seek advice from a medical professional to establish the best method suitable for one's healthcare needs.
How to Prepare for a FibroScan Test?
Preparing for a FibroScan test is easy and guarantees proper evaluation of your liver condition. Here's how to prepare:
1. Fasting Before the Test
Don't eat or drink for at least 3 hours before your visit.
If you have to take medication, you are allowed to do so with a sip of water.
2. Dress Comfortably
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not restrict access to your upper right abdomen, as this region must remain exposed during the test.
Do not wear tight clothes or one-piece garments that could prevent access.
3. Notify Your Healthcare Provider
Tell your provider if you are pregnant or have implantable electronic devices such as pacemakers, as these could impact the procedure.
4. What to Expect During the Test
You will lie on your back with your right arm held above your head.
A gel will be applied to your skin, and a probe will be placed on your abdomen to measure liver stiffness.
The test is not painful, lasts approximately 10–15 minutes, and does not require sedation.
5. After the Test
You may return to normal activities immediately, including driving.
Results are usually ready in a few business days and will be reviewed with you by your healthcare provider.
Benefits of Choosing MedStar Clinic for Your Liver Health Check-up
At MedStar Clinic, we understand the critical role your liver plays in your overall health, from producing essential proteins to filtering toxins. While liver health is often overlooked, early detection and treatment of liver disease are crucial. That's why we emphasise the importance of FibroScan, a cutting-edge technology that allows for a quick and non-invasive assessment of your liver's health.
Expertise and Experience
Our clinic boasts a team of highly skilled and experienced medical professionals specialising in liver health. They are proficient in performing FibroScan and accurately interpreting the results, ensuring you receive the most precise diagnosis and personalised care.
Advanced FibroScan Technology
We utilise state-of-the-art FibroScan equipment, which provides reliable and reproducible measurements of liver stiffness and fat content. This advanced technology enables early detection of liver conditions like fibrosis and steatosis, often before symptoms appear.
Non-Invasive and Convenient
FibroScan at MedStar Clinic is a quick, painless, and non-invasive procedure. It's a convenient alternative to traditional liver biopsies, eliminating the risks and discomfort associated with invasive methods.
Comprehensive Liver Health Approach
Beyond just the FibroScan, MedStar Clinic offers a holistic approach to liver health. Our specialists will discuss your results with you in detail, provide personalised recommendations, and guide you through any necessary follow-up care or lifestyle modifications.
Focus on Early Detection and Prevention
We are committed to proactive healthcare. By choosing MedStar Clinic for your FibroScan, you're taking a significant step towards early identification of potential liver issues, allowing for timely intervention and better long-term health outcomes.
Don’t wait until symptoms appear to prioritise your liver health. Choose MedStar Clinic for a reliable and comprehensive FibroScan to get a clear picture of your liver’s condition and take control of your well-being.
Advantages of FibroScan
Not Invasive and Painless
Unlike a liver biopsy, which requires needles and cuts, FibroScan is non-invasive and painless. The test works best for people who have trouble moving about or who might be afraid of intrusive procedures.
Fast and Easy
FibroScan is usually chosen for its non-invasive nature, fast results, and repeat ease, making it ideal for frequent checks on the health of the liver. Nevertheless, a liver biopsy may be advised in some instances where thorough tissue examination is required. One should seek advice from a medical professional to establish the best method suitable for one’s healthcare needs.
Safety and Cost-Effectiveness
There are no dangers or complications involved in using FibroScan. Considering how costly it is to maintain the health sector, it offers far lower medical care expenses than biopsies.
Early Detection and Intervention
Early detection of liver disease is critical to treatment and outcomes. Thanks to FibroScan’s early fibrosis diagnosis, doctors can treat patients before damage is done, improving their prognosis.
Monitoring Disease Progression
Patients with liver illness can monitor the course of their condition and the effectiveness of their treatment with FibroScan. During monitoring, treatment regimens can be modified as necessary to enhance patient care.
Reduced Need for Biopsies
For a definitive diagnosis, biopsies are still the gold standard, but FibroScan’s accuracy usually eliminates the need for them. This lessens the agony and effects of the biopsy.
MedStar Clinic – The Ideal Choice for Your FibroScan and Liver Health Check-up
At MedStar, we are proud to offer FibroScan services, providing patients with access to this innovative technology that enhances the evaluation of liver health.
We are fully committed to supporting our patients on their journey to wellness through advanced diagnostic tools like FibroScan.
By choosing us, you benefit from a non-invasive, painless, and accurate test that aids in the early detection of liver conditions. This service not only empowers our medical professionals with critical insights but also enables patients to take control of their liver health and make informed decisions for a healthier future.