FibroScan® in Illinois
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Find a ProviderWhat is FibroScan?
FibroScan is an ultrasound technology used by the GI specialists at GI Alliance of Illinois to noninvasively inspect the liver. Also referred to as transient elastography, the scan utilizes a specialized ultrasound machine to measure the state of fibrosis and steatosis present in the liver. Fibrosis takes place when the liver replaces healthy tissue with cicatrix (scar) tissue in an attempt to heal itself from an underlying condition. Hepatic steatosis is also identified as fatty change and appears when fat accumulates within the liver cells.
Using FibroScan, your Chicago, IL, or Bloomington, IL, GI specialists may analyze the state and working condition of your liver, and supply a diagnosis and medical plan without aggressively probing the body to check the liver. If you suffer from a liver condition, contact GI Alliance of Illinois to learn if you might benefit from FibroScan ultrasound technology.
Who is a good candidate for FibroScan testing?
FibroScan testing could be appropriate for patients who have beginning to advanced liver disease or other conditions. These could include:
- Certain types of hepatitis
- Alcoholic FLD
- different kinds of chronic liver disease (CLD)
- Dysmetabolic syndrome
- NASH or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- Hemochromatosis
- Cirrhosis of the liver (severe scarring)
- Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)
How is FibroScan performed?
A FibroScan in Illinois is a generally comfortable exam that is finalized within 10 – 15 minutes. A detector will be put on your skin right next to your liver. This special detector emits acoustic sound waves through your liver to measure the rate at which sound travels through the organ. The FibroScan ultrasound machine then develops results that your GI Alliance of Illinois GI specialists will read to establish the rate of hardness (fibrosis) found within your hepatic system (liver).
How do you understand and explain FibroScan results?
FibroScan results are provided in accordance with fatty liver disease grade and fibrosis score. The following charts contain generic knowledge relating to what the results of the scan might show. You should discuss your results in detail with your GI Alliance of Illinois GI specialist after your FibroScan scan.
Steatosis grade of severity: The fatty change findings explain the level of fatty change in the liver and are reported with a controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) score, which is measured in decibels per meter (dB/m). The range is from 100 to 400 dB/m, and assorted ranges contribute to various steatosis grades.
| CAP Score (dB/m) | Steatosis Grade | Amount of Liver With Fatty Change |
| 238 – 260 | S1 | 11% – 33% |
| 260 – 290 | S2 | 34% – 66% |
| 290 + | S3 | 67% + |
Fibrosis score: The fibrosis score is a valuation of the scarring of the liver and represents the layer of scarring that the liver has experienced. Your GI provider will use your FibroScan results along with your medical records to determine your fibrosis value. different liver diseases and conditions can affect the fibrosis score.
- F0 to F1: void of scarring/minimal scarring
- F2: Moderate scarring
- F3: extreme scarring
- F4: Advanced scarring (cirrhosis)
What are the benefits of FibroScan?
Because FibroScan utilizes ultrasound technology, there is very little to no danger associated with it. FibroScan is a noninvasive imaging technique and is therefore usually a comfortable experience. It grants for a broader view of the entire liver rather than only a very small portion that occurs in a liver biopsy. On top of that, no sedation medication is necessary for the scan, it is relatively low-cost, quickly accomplished, and the results are immediate.
Specialized care for liver conditions
As the second-largest organ in the body, your liver carries out roles imperative to your health. Fibrosis and steatosis can influence your liver and your body in various ways and could lead to severe conditions without suitable care. To learn more about FibroScan in Illinois, or to connect with a liver doctor near you, please call your local GI Alliance of Illinois practice today.
FibroScan® FAQs
Is there any necessary prep for a FibroScan exam?
You will need to avoid drinking or eating anything except small sips of water three hours before your FibroScan test. You can, however, continue to take any medications as prescribed. Our team recommends you wear loose clothing to make it simpler for your provider to access the right side of your ribcage. Your GI doctor will discuss preparation details with you before the exam to ensure you know what to expect before, during, and after the FibroScan process.
What liver diseases can FibroScan help identify and assess?
The FibroScan exam can help detect and assess the progress of several liver diseases, including:
- Hepatitis B and C
- Hemochromatosis
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
What is the difference between FibroScan and an ultrasound?
FibroScan is a form of ultrasound that employs the same technology a normal ultrasound uses, called transient elastography. While similar, FibroScan detects how stiff the liver is and is more accurate in evaluating liver issues than a simple ultrasound.
Is FibroScan favored over a liver biopsy?
FibroScan is an excellent nonsurgical alternative to a liver biopsy. However, there are certain instances where a biopsy of the liver may be preferred. This can include situations where the individual has fluid in the abdomen, has a defibrillator or pacemaker, or is pregnant. Additionally, research has found that results may be skewed in those who are morbidly obese. With that in mind, our GI Alliance of Illinois team will help you determine if a FibroScan exam or liver biopsy is the ideal option for you.
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