(607NewsNow) — Liver damage is caused by long-term inflammation and the subsequent buildup of scar tissue. Excessive alcohol consumption, metabolic conditions like diabetes and obesity, and viral infections like Hepatitis B and C can have an impact on a person’s liver health. Although the organ can regenerate, sustained injury can have lasting consequences – making routine monitoring important for those at risk.
FibroScan, an ultrasound that measures liver stiffness and fat content, allows healthcare providers to see the degree of damage and discover changes.
“We’re specifically looking at the degree of fatty infiltration of the liver as well as degree of fibrosis, or scarring of the liver, if it’s present,” says Dr. Gary Valvano, Gastroenterologist at Arnot Health, a Member of Centralus Health.
The non-invasive imaging technology replaces the need for tests that may be painful for patients and avoids the risks that come with surgical-based options. The short procedure is a better option for those who need regular liver testing. With no risk of bleeding or infections, FibroScan can be repeated as often as needed to track disease progression.
“FibroScan can be performed in about 10 to 15 minutes. We do repeat these exams about every six months.”
Since FibroScan doesn’t require sedation, preparing for an appointment is simple.
“The only thing you have to do to prepare for a scan is to not have anything to eat or drink at least three hours prior.”
FibroScan uses sound waves to measure liver stiffness and fat, making the test painless.
“All you feel is a little pressure. We also use some gel that’s water-based on that right upper quadrant. Other than that, you might feel a little vibration from the probe, but that’s it.”
Liver changes can be seen and analyzed by gastroenterologists in real time, eliminating the need to wait for lab results.
“We do get a readout from the system, which is printed. A copy is given to the patient, and we go over the results with them immediately after the scan.”
FibroScan can offer information about liver health, but it can’t provide a definitive diagnosis. If doctors notice a spot, possible tumors or masses, patients will still need to have a conventional ultrasound and, when necessary, a liver biopsy.
Cayuga Health Gastroenterology is located at 1020 Craft Road, Suite C, Ithaca and 220 Steuben Street, Montour Falls. Arnot Health Gastroenterology is located at St. Joseph’s Hospital, 571 St. Joseph’s Boulevard, Suite 307, Elmira. To schedule a preventative screening, call Cayuga Gastroenterology (607) 339-0788, Arnot Gastroenterology (607) 734-7121, or speak with your primary care physician.
