A Liver Health Examination with Fibroscan — No Pain, No Scars

The liver is the largest internal organ in our body, playing crucial roles in digestion and waste elimination. The liver can be affected by various diseases, including acute and chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. In Thailand, liver cancer is the leading cause of death, the most common cancer in men, and the third most common cancer in women.
 

Early Detection is Key

Liver issues often go unnoticed until they become severe. Regular liver health tests can catch any abnormalities early, allowing for timely treatment before significant damage occurs — preventing cirrhosis and liver failure.

 
What is Fibroscan?

Fibroscan technology assesses liver fibrosis and liver fat. It lets doctors understand the severity of liver conditions and monitor treatment progress. This technology also aids in preventing liver disease in high-risk individuals by allowing for early detection and planning for preventive measures through lifestyle changes or medication.

 
Who Should Consider a Fibroscan?

Those who have or are:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Hepatitis B or C
• Family history of liver disease
• Heavy alcohol consumers
• Fatty liver disease
• Chronic cholestasis
• Cirrhosis
• Liver transplants
• Taking liver-damaging medications

The Fibroscan Procedure

The Fibroscan machine uses sound wave reflection to measure liver stiffness and elasticity. During the procedure:

• The patient lies on their back with their right arm raised above their head.
• The doctor places a device emitting sound signals on the right side of the ribcage.
• Low-frequency sound signals are sent into the liver and the machine translates the speed of sound reflection into diagnostic values.

Benefits of Fibroscan

• Quick and accurate: Takes about 10 minutes
• Non-invasive: No pain or wounds, unlike a liver biopsy
• Frequent procedures are possible: Can be undergone often without side effects
• Immediate results: Patients can go home right after the test
• Cost-effective: Less costly than a liver biopsy

Fibroscan is Not Suitable For

• Pregnant women
• Individuals with dropsy (severe fluid retention)
• People with certain medical device implants

 
At the Digestive Diseases (GI) Center, our team of experts specializes in diagnosing and treating digestive and liver diseases. With cutting-edge technology like Fibroscan, we ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.