Liver ultrasound with elastography

Liver elastography represents a non-invasive diagnostic method using ultrasound to assess liver tissue elasticity and stiffness. This procedure enables doctors to detect liver fibrosis, a scarring process that can develop due to various liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver, and cirrhosis.

How Liver Elastography Performed?

Liver elastography performed using a special device combining conventional ultrasound with technology measuring mechanical wave speed through the liver. Patient lies on back while doctor places ultrasound probe on right abdomen where liver located. Waves emitted by probe travel through liver with their speed and reflection measured, providing tissue elasticity information.

Procedure Duration

Liver elastography proves a quick and simple procedure typically lasting 10 to 20 minutes. Examination completely painless, requires no anesthesia or sedation. Patients can resume daily activities immediately after examination.

When to Perform Liver Elastography?

Liver elastography recommended in following situations:

• Fibrosis assessment in patients with chronic hepatitis B or C
• Monitoring condition in patients with fatty liver (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis)
• Disease progression tracking in patients with cirrhosis
• Liver damage assessment in patients with alcoholic liver disease
• Suspicion of other liver diseases potentially causing fibrosis

Why Liver Elastography Beneficial?

Liver elastography offers numerous advantages over traditional fibrosis assessment methods like biopsy:

• Non-invasive: No need for needle insertion or tissue sampling
• Painless: No patient discomfort
• Quick: Procedure short with real-time results
• Safe: No complications associated with biopsy

Liver elastography gaining increasing importance in gastroenterology and hepatology, providing valuable information aiding treatment decisions and patient monitoring with liver diseases.