FibroScan

If you’re at risk or experience signs of liver fibrosis (stiffness), turn to Ernest F. Ribera, M.D. Burlingame Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Burlingame, California. Highly trained gastroenterologist Ernest Ribera, MD, and his team use FibroScan®  technology to evaluate fat in your liver and measure fibrosis. Schedule an evaluation today by calling the office or using the online booking tab.

What is FibroScan?

Ernest F. Ribera, M.D. - Burlingame Gastroenterology and Hepatology uses in-office FibroScan  technology (Echosens FibroScan Model Touch 502) to determine the amount of liver fat, measure the level of fibrosis (stiffness), and find the most effective treatment.

FibroScan  is a diagnostic tool that uses transient elastography, an enhanced ultrasound technology, to diagnose and monitor liver disease.

Who is a candidate for FibroScan?

Candidates for FibroScan procedures include people with:

Elevated liver enzymes

Elevated liver enzymes can indicate damage or liver cell inflammation. Examples of liver enzymes include alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate transaminase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT).

Fatty liver

Fatty liver disease is excessive fat stored in the liver cells. This increases the risk of liver damage.

Metabolic Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)

MASH is a more severe form of fatty liver that increases your risk of liver failure and cirrhosis.

Alcoholic liver disease

Alcoholic liver disease is caused by drinking large amounts of alcohol (more than your liver can process). This can cause severe liver scarring (cirrhosis) and potential liver failure.

Hepatitis B and C

Viral hepatitis infections can cause liver inflammation, increasing the risk of cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.

Metabolic syndrome

FibroScan testing can also monitor and help treat patients with metabolic syndrome, several conditions that coincide, raising your risk of Type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.

How should I prepare for FibroScan?

The only preparation needed before FibroScan testing is to avoid eating for three hours before your scheduled appointment. You can drink water, but avoid drinks containing sugar within three hours of the test. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment. 

What should I expect during FibroScan procedures?

FibroScan  procedures are painless diagnostic tests that don’t require sedation. They take 5-15 minutes. You lie on your back with your right arm behind your head and your right abdominal area exposed. You might feel mild pulses from the ultrasound probe as it takes readings of your liver health, but the procedure isn’t painful.

What happens afterward?

No downtime is needed after a FibroScan  procedure. You can resume your daily activities immediately. Your specialist reviews the results and determines if you need further diagnostic testing, lifestyle changes, medication, or other treatments to improve liver health.

Schedule an appointment at Ernest F. Ribera, M.D. Burlingame Gastroenterology and Hepatology today by phone or online to determine if you’re a candidate for FibroScan.