MRI elastography for the liver is a non-invasive medical imaging technique used to assess the stiffness or elasticity of liver tissue. It is a specialized form of MRI that uses mechanical waves to create images of the liver.
During an MRI elastography exam, the patient lies inside an MRI scanner while a mechanical wave, usually generated by a small paddle, is applied to the liver. The MRI scanner then uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the liver, including the areas affected by liver disease. The speed and direction of the mechanical waves generated by the paddle are also measured, and this information is used to calculate the stiffness of the liver tissue.
The results of an MRI elastography exam 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.
MRI elastography is a non-invasive and painless procedure that typically takes about 20-30 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.
MRI elastography is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver disease, and it can help guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes. It is often used in conjunction with other imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or CT, to provide a comprehensive evaluation of liver health.