Name of the Procedure:

Liver Imaging with Vascular Flow
Common name(s): Liver Doppler Ultrasound, Hepatic Flow Ultrasound

Summary

Liver imaging with vascular flow is a non-invasive procedure that uses ultrasound technology to evaluate blood flow in the liver. During the procedure, sound waves create detailed images of the liver and its blood vessels, helping doctors diagnose various liver conditions.

Purpose

The medical condition or problem it addresses:

• Liver cirrhosis
• Portal hypertension
• Hepatic vein thrombosis
• Liver tumors

The goals or expected outcomes of the procedure:

• Assess liver blood flow
• Detect abnormalities in liver functionality
• Guide treatment planning

Indications

Specific symptoms or conditions that warrant the procedure:

• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Enlarged liver or spleen

Patient criteria or factors that make the procedure appropriate:

• History of liver disease
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Suspicion of vascular complications in the liver

Preparation

Pre-procedure instructions for the patient:

• Fast for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
• Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol for 24 hours before the procedure.

Any diagnostic tests or assessments required beforehand:

• Liver function tests (LFTs)
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Coagulation profile

Procedure Description

Detailed step-by-step explanation of what the procedure involves:

1. The patient lies down on an examination table.
2. A water-based gel is applied to the patient’s abdomen.
3. An ultrasound transducer is moved across the abdomen to capture images.
4. The Doppler function is activated to assess blood flow in the liver's vessels.

Tools, equipment, or technology used:

• Ultrasound machine
• Doppler ultrasound transducer

Anesthesia or sedation details, if applicable:

• The procedure typically does not require anesthesia or sedation.

Duration

How long the procedure typically takes:

• Approximately 30-60 minutes.

Setting

Where the procedure is performed:

• Hospital radiology department
• Outpatient imaging center

Personnel

Healthcare professionals involved:

• Radiologist or sonographer
• Technicians

Risks and Complications

Common and rare risks associated with the procedure:

• Slight discomfort from transducer pressure
• Rare risk of allergic reaction to the gel

Possible complications and their management:

• Minimal: usually, no significant complications occur.

Benefits

Expected benefits and how soon they might be realized:

• Immediate visualization of liver blood flow
• Early detection of liver conditions
• Enhanced diagnosis and treatment planning

Recovery

Post-procedure care and instructions:

• No special care needed post-procedure
• Resume normal activities immediately

Expected recovery time and any restrictions or follow-up appointments:

• No downtime; follow-up appointments as advised by your doctor based on the findings.

Alternatives

Other treatment options available:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
• Liver Biopsy

Pros and cons of alternatives compared to the described procedure:

• MRI and CT provide more detailed imaging but are more expensive and may involve exposure to radiation (CT).
• A liver biopsy is invasive and involves a longer recovery time, but provides histological information.

Patient Experience

What the patient might feel or experience during and after the procedure:

• Mild pressure from the ultrasound probe
• Cool sensation from the application of the gel
• Generally, no pain or significant discomfort

Pain management and comfort measures:

• Normally, no pain management required
• Patients can communicate any discomfort to the sonographer during the procedure