What is the FibroScan® Test Used For and How Does It Help?
7/6/2023
Throughout past years, the primary way to identify the state of the liver was by a surgical liver biopsy. However, due to new progression in technology, providers can now test the condition of their patients’ liver using a simple, nonsurgical ultrasound procedure called a FibroScan. At Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology, our team of GI specialists offers this rapid and valuable exam to assess liver health and help you manage your general health and wellness. To get additional info about FibroScan testing and how it can help gauge the health of your liver, contact one of our Indianapolis, IN locations.
What is FibroScan?
The FibroScan exam is a liver elastography that depends on ultrasound technology to determine if there is any damage to your liver. This simple test can find liver scarring and stiffness quickly and simply. Liver scarring, called liver fibrosis, can develop due to vast alcohol use, a diet high in fats, being excessively overweight, type 2 diabetes, and more. Fibrosis is known to lead to cirrhosis, the term for the excessive scarring and damage of a person’s liver. Later stages of cirrhosis might lead to tiredness, a decline in weight, yellowing of the skin and eyes, liver cancer, and, finally, liver failure.
Where a biopsy of the liver typically requires hours of your time, sedatives, and a surgically invasive procedure, the FibroScan test is usually completed in about ten minutes, causes virtually no discomfort, and is non-invasive, allowing you to get back to your normal, everyday activities once finished.
Why is FibroScan crucial?
Due to the repercussions connected to liver damage, it is important that you treat your liver health with the utmost importance. This is where the FibroScan comes in. Once you receive the FibroScan exam, our Indianapolis, IN GI providers can use your results to establish and track a variety of liver issues, like:
- Diseases related to alcohol consumption
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Hepatitis B or C
- NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis)
In addition, we may also evaluate the rate at which your liver damage continues to develop. Checking this gives us the ability to put together a treatment plan for your specific needs.
How long can it take to get my FibroScan test results?
An added bonus of the FibroScan test is that your results are available in only a few days. If you have a liver biopsy, results can take up to two weeks. However, with FibroScan, you’ll be given your test results more quickly, which can allow you to begin your treatment plan straight away.
After your results are ready, our team of GI providers will reach you via phone or meet with you in person to go over your exam results. Our providers will help you understand your results and what they mean for your liver health and your overall health.
Will I be able to address my FibroScan results?
If the FibroScan test results indicate damage to your liver, you can make various choices to either work to reverse the damage or stop further damage from developing. Steps you can take in order to improve the health of your liver include, but are not limited to:
- Lose weight if you are obese
- Work with your doctor to swap medications as needed
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Begin eating a high-fiber, low-fat diet
- Work out daily
Schedule a FibroScan in Indianapolis, IN
Actively taking control of your health is one way to avert potential medical issues. By receiving simple and quick, virtually painless exams such as FibroScan, you can better understand your liver health and make key changes before more damage occurs. At Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology, our providers facilitate this advanced liver biopsy alternative. Get in touch with an Indianapolis, IN location near you to learn more about how FibroScan works.