About the Treatment Method
Liver Evaluation Process
In a vast majority of cases, yes. Biopsy is a procedure with a risk of bleeding that requires taking a piece from the liver with a needle. Fibroscan, on the other hand, is applied externally like an ultrasound and gives the degree of hardness of the liver (Cirrhosis risk) as numerical data in seconds. Only in very complex and atypical cases, classic needle biopsy may still be needed.
The patient lies on their back. The doctor places the probe (head) of the device between the right ribs over the liver. The device sends light, vibrating waves to the liver. By measuring the propagation speed of these waves in the liver, how much the organ has hardened (fibrosis score) is instantly reflected on the screen. The procedure takes only 5-10 minutes.
Yes, to get the most accurate and unerring results, at least 3-4 hours of fasting (stopping eating and drinking, except for water) is required before the procedure. Since eating will increase the blood flow to the liver, it can falsely elevate the measurement values.
The information on this page is for general health advice. Please consult specialized physicians for personalized treatment or advice.