Liver Elastography
Liver elastography is a modern, non-invasive diagnostic method used to assess liver stiffness and elasticity. It is based on advanced ultrasound technology that enables measurement of changes in the structure, i.e., density of the liver, thereby allowing early detection and staging of liver fibrosis.
Why is liver elastography important?
Changes in liver stiffness are often the first sign of developing chronic diseases, sometimes even before symptoms appear. Elastography enables early detection of structural liver tissue damage, assessment of the degree of fibrosis (from mild changes to liver cirrhosis), as well as monitoring of disease progression and treatment effectiveness.
It also reduces the need for invasive procedures such as biopsy. Due to its high accuracy and safety, elastography has become an important tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver diseases.
Who is liver elastography recommended for?
Liver elastography is recommended as part of the diagnostic algorithm for individuals at increased risk of liver damage or with already diagnosed liver disease, especially those who:
- have fatty liver detected by another method
- have elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST, and GGT)
- have elevated blood lipid levels
- have diabetes mellitus
- consume alcohol in larger quantities
- have hepatitis B or C
What does the examination look like?
A liver elastography examination takes only a few minutes. It is simple, and completely painless. It is performed with the patient lying down, while the physician moves an ultrasound probe over the skin of the upper right abdomen.
The device sends mechanical waves through the liver tissue and measures their propagation speed. Based on the obtained data, liver stiffness is calculated, and the result is displayed immediately in numerical form.
What are the advantages of the examination?
- Non-invasive and painless method
- No risk and no recovery time after the examination
- Fast results available immediately
- Can be repeated without limitations
- High reliability in assessing liver damage
- Significantly reduces the need for biopsy
How often should elastography be performed?
The frequency of examinations depends on the findings and the physician’s recommendation. In individuals with existing liver disease, elastography is usually repeated every 6 to 12 months, while in those without significant changes, follow-up can be less frequent.
If you wish to check the condition of your liver, elastography is a simple and reliable method that enables early assessment of potential changes. Early detection can help monitor and treat liver disease, and reduce the risk of complications.
At St. Catherine Specialty Hospital, transient elastography (FibroScan®) is available. In addition to measuring liver tissue stiffness, this method also allows assessment of the degree of hepatic steatosis (fat accumulation in the liver).
If you want to make an appointment, please contact our Center for Gastroenterology via email at info@stcatherine.com or by phone at +385 1 2867 400 and place your trust in the safe hands of our expert team of gastroenterologists.
