Name of the Procedure:

Hepatic Function Panel (also known as Liver Function Tests)

Summary

A Hepatic Function Panel is a blood test that measures several important liver enzymes, proteins, and substances. It helps assess the functionality of the liver by evaluating various parameters to identify liver damage, disease, or abnormalities.

Purpose

The Hepatic Function Panel is used to diagnose and monitor liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver damage due to medications or toxins. The goal is to determine the liver's health and detect any underlying issues so appropriate treatment can be provided.

Indications

• Symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss
• History of liver disease or risk factors such as alcohol use or exposure to hepatitis viruses
• Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment for liver conditions
• Evaluating liver function before surgery or certain medications

Preparation

• Fasting: Patients may be asked to fast for 8-12 hours prior to the test.
• Medication Adjustments: Certain medications may need to be paused or adjusted after consulting with a healthcare provider.
• Diagnostic Tests: No additional diagnostic tests are typically required prior to the blood draw.

Procedure Description

1. Blood Sample Collection: A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein, usually in the arm, using a needle and syringe.
2. Laboratory Analysis: The collected blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis based on the following tests:
   • Albumin (82040)
   • Bilirubin, total (82247)
   • Bilirubin, direct (82248)
   • Phosphatase, alkaline (84075)
   • Protein, total (84155)
   • Transferase, alanine amino (ALT) (SGPT) (84460)
   • Transferase, aspartate (AST) (84450)
3. Results: Results are typically available within a few days and are interpreted by the healthcare provider.

Duration

The blood draw itself takes about 5-10 minutes, but the entire process including preparation and paperwork may take approximately 30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting such as a hospital, clinic, or laboratory.

Personnel

• A phlebotomist or nurse will perform the blood draw.
• A laboratory technician will analyze the blood sample.
• A healthcare provider (e.g., doctor) will interpret the results.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Minor bruising or discomfort at the needle site.
• Rare risks: Infection, significant bleeding, or fainting.
• Complication management: Applying pressure and a bandage to the site can minimize bruising and bleeding, and properly sterilizing equipment prevents infection.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of liver conditions.
• Monitoring the progression or improvement of liver diseases.
• Early detection of liver dysfunction leading to timely intervention.

Recovery

• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
• Keeping the bandage on for a few hours can help prevent bruising.
• Follow-up: Patients should return for a follow-up appointment to discuss the test results with their healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• Imaging tests (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan) can also assess liver structure but not its function.
• Liver biopsy provides detailed information but is more invasive.
• Pros and cons: Blood tests are less invasive, quicker, and safer compared to biopsies but may not provide detailed structural information.

Patient Experience

• During: Minor discomfort from the needle prick.
• After: Slight soreness at the needle site; generally resolves within a few hours.
• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or applying a cold compress may alleviate discomfort.