Why might I need a FibroScan test?

At Atlantic Gastroenterology, we use a number of different diagnostic devices to help our team provide the care patients need to improve their quality of life. Individuals concerned about the liver may be told they can benefit from liver elastography using the FibroScan test device.

What is the FibroScan test?

The FibroScan is a non-invasive test that uses ultrasound waves to measure the amount of fat in your liver. This test is used to diagnose and monitor liver disease, including fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. The results of the FibroScan can help your healthcare provider determine the severity of your liver disease and plan your treatment accordingly. It is sometimes referred to as liver elastography.

Why would I need a FibroScan?

If Dr. Alexander Shapsis needs to evaluate the liver, he may recommend undergoing testing using the FibroScan device.

What happens during the FibroScan?

During the FibroScan, you will lie on your back on an examination table. A gel will be applied to your skin over the area being examined. A small hand-held device (transducer) will be placed on your skin and moved around in a circular motion. The transducer administers sound waves that pass through your liver. The waves are then reflected to the transducer, and a computer generates an image (elastogram) of your liver based on the reflection patterns.

What are the benefits of the FibroScan?

There are several benefits of the FibroScan, including:

• Non-invasive: The FibroScan is a painless, non-invasive test that does not require any sedation or anesthesia.
• Safe: There are no known risks or complications associated with the FibroScan.
• Quick: The entire procedure takes less than 10 minutes to complete.
• Accurate: The FibroScan is a highly accurate test for diagnosing and monitoring liver disease.

What are the risks of the FibroScan?

There are no currently known risks or complications associated with the FibroScan. This is a safe and effective test for diagnosing and monitoring liver disease.

What can the FibroScan device help diagnose?

The FibroScan device can help Dr. Alexander Shapsis diagnose the following conditions:

• Fatty liver disease: The FibroScan can be used to diagnose fatty liver disease, a condition where there is an accumulation of fat within the liver. Fatty liver disease can be caused by obesity, diabetes, or excessive alcohol consumption.
• Hepatitis: The FibroScan can be used to diagnose hepatitis, a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis can lead to conditions such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.
• Cirrhosis: The FibroScan can be used to diagnose cirrhosis, a condition in which the liver is damaged and scarred. Cirrhosis might be caused by conditions and habits such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or excessive alcohol consumption.

Is there any preparation required before the FibroScan?

No special preparation is required before the FibroScan. You may be asked to refrain from both eating and drinking for 8 hours before the test, but this is not always necessary. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on preparing for the test.

How do I learn more about liver elastography with the FibroScan device near me?

If you reside in Brooklyn, NY, and want to speak to a provider about the FibroScan test, call Dr. Alexander Shapsis and his team at Atlantic Gastroenterology at 718 521-2840. The office is located at 239 Court Street and is currently open for new patients.