Fibroscan is a non-invasive medical procedure used to measure the liver’s stiffness or fibrosis. It is commonly used to evaluate patients with liver diseases such as hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The procedure involves the use of a specialized device called a Fibroscan that uses ultrasonic waves to measure the stiffness of the liver. During the procedure, the patient lies on their back and a small probe is placed on the skin over the liver. The probe sends ultrasonic waves into the liver and measures the speed at which the waves travel through the liver tissue. The Fibroscan machine calculates the liver’s stiffness based on the speed of the waves and displays the results on a screen. The results of the Fibroscan test can help the healthcare provider determine the extent of liver damage and the best course of treatment for the patient. Fibroscan is generally a quick and painless procedure that takes about 10 to 15 minutes to complete. It is usually performed in a healthcare provider’s office or outpatient clinic and does not require any special preparation. The patient may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure to ensure accurate results. The healthcare provider will explain the procedure to the patient and answer any questions they may have before the procedure begins.
