Name of the Procedure:

Liver Elastography, Mechanically Induced Shear Wave (e.g., Vibration), Without Imaging, with Interpretation and Report

Summary

Liver elastography is a non-invasive test that measures the stiffness of your liver using vibrations (shear waves). Unlike some other types of liver scans, this procedure does not use imaging but relies on a mechanical device to generate and interpret these vibrations.

Purpose

The procedure assesses the stiffness or elasticity of the liver tissue. It is primarily used to evaluate the extent of liver fibrosis or scarring, which can result from various liver diseases, including hepatitis and fatty liver disease. The goal is to provide an accurate assessment of liver health to guide treatment decisions.

Indications

• Chronic hepatitis B or C
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Primary biliary cirrhosis
• Unexplained elevation in liver enzymes
• Monitoring known liver conditions

Preparation

• No significant preparation is usually required.
• Patients may be advised to fast for a few hours prior to the test.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medication you are taking.

Procedure Description

1. You will lie down on an examination table.
2. A technician will place a device on your right upper abdomen, over the liver.
3. The device generates mechanical vibrations (shear waves) that pass through the liver.
4. The stiffness of the liver tissue affects the speed of these waves.
5. Measurements are taken and recorded for interpretation.
6. A detailed report is generated based on these measurements.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 10-20 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized diagnostic center.

Personnel

• The procedure is conducted by a trained technician.
• A hepatologist or a radiologist interprets the results and provides a report.

Risks and Complications

• This procedure is very safe with minimal risk.
• Some patients might experience mild discomfort during the vibrations.
• Rarely, there might be technical difficulties in obtaining accurate results, particularly in individuals with severe obesity.

Benefits

• Provides a quick, non-invasive assessment of liver health.
• Helps in early detection of liver fibrosis, potentially reducing the need for a liver biopsy.
• Results are available immediately after the procedure.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed.
• You can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Alternatives

• Liver biopsy: More invasive but provides detailed histological information.
• MRI elastography: Non-invasive and includes imaging, but is more expensive and less accessible.
• Serum fibrosis markers: Less accurate but simple blood tests.

Patient Experience

• The procedure is generally painless, with mild pressure or vibration feelings over the liver.
• No anesthesia or sedation is required.
• You will be comfortable throughout the process, and any discomfort should be minimal and brief.