FibroScan is a non-invasive medical imaging technique used to assess the stiffness or elasticity of liver tissue. The technique uses ultrasound waves to generate shear waves, which are waves that travel perpendicular to the direction of the ultrasound beam. The speed of the shear waves is directly related to the stiffness of the liver tissue, and this information can be used to diagnose liver diseases such as cirrhosis, fibrosis, and fatty liver disease.
FibroScan imaging involves the use of a specialized probe, which is placed on the skin overlying the liver. The probe sends a low-frequency vibration into the liver tissue, generating a shear wave that travels through the liver. The speed of the shear wave is then measured, and this information is used to calculate the stiffness of the liver.
The results of a FibroScan test are typically reported as a numerical value called a liver stiffness measurement (LSM). This value is used to grade the severity of liver disease, with higher values indicating more advanced liver fibrosis or cirrhosis.
FibroScan imaging is a non-invasive and painless procedure that typically takes only a few minutes to perform. It does not require any special preparation or recovery time, and there are no known risks or side effects associated with the procedure.
FibroScan is often used in conjunction with other imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to provide a comprehensive evaluation of liver health. It is an important tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver disease, and it can help guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes.