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FibroScan

GI Specialists of Houston, LLP -  - Gastroenterology

GI Specialists of Houston, LLP

Gastroenterology located in Baytown, TX & Houston, TX

FibroScan® is a groundbreaking approach to monitoring and managing liver health. At GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, the team of liver health specialists uses FibroScan because it’s a 100% noninvasive way to detect liver fibrosis (scarring) long before you have symptoms. This process allows for early treatment and could even help save your life. Call one of the state-of-the-art offices nearest you in Baytown, North Loop, Humble, or Houston, Texas, today. Hassle-free booking is also available through the online scheduler.

FibroScan Q & A

What is FibroScan®?

FibroScan is a noninvasive and painless liver test that uses technology similar to an ultrasound (sound waves that produce a virtual image of internal organs). 

A FibroScan exam checks the stiffness of your liver. If your liver has areas of stiffness, it usually represents scarring due to liver disease. 

Liver disease is often painless until it’s advanced; FibroScan can give you a window into your liver health early. If your test shows signs of liver disease, you can start treatment right away and often avoid progression. 

Why did my doctor order a FibroScan?

Liver problems are more common than you may think. About one-third of adults over 40 have fatty liver disease, and more than three-quarters of adults with Type 2 diabetes now have fatty liver disease. 

FibroScan is an effective way to be proactive about your liver health. The GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, team may recommend FibroScan if you have possible indicators of liver disease, such as: 

  • Alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
  • Hepatitis B or C
  • Autoimmune hepatitis
  • Cirrhosis (severe liver scarring)
  • Inherited liver diseases (examples are Wilson’s Disease and hemochromatosis)

In addition, the team may recommend FibroScan to monitor existing liver disease. The exam can help determine whether your current treatment approach works well or needs adjustments.

What can I expect from the FibroScan process?

Fast (no food or drink) for three hours before your appointment. Wear loose clothing that’s easy to lift to expose your right rib cage area. 

The procedure involves painless energy pulses sent harmlessly through your skin and into your liver. The pulses create an image on a nearby monitor. Your appointment takes about half an hour from start to finish. 

After a radiologist (imaging specialist) reviews your FibroScan images, the GI Specialists of Houston, LLP gets your full report within a few days, reviews your results with you, explains what they mean, and helps with treatment plans based on your needs.  

FibroScan is a revolutionary way to monitor and help protect your liver. There are no incisions, injections, or inconvenience — just a half-hour appointment needed to get the answers you need and help you live your healthiest life for as long as possible. Call GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, or book your appointment with the online feature now.