Advances in liver stiffness measurements using transient elastography

Transient elastography has been extensively validated for in vivo liver stiffness measurement (LSM) using Fibroscan (R) (Echosens, Paris, France). This non invasive and rapid procedure Is used to assess liver fibrosis in adult patients. We present the recent advances in transient elastography for liver stiffness measurements in children and obese patients. Liver stiffness measurements were performed on children using a dedicated probe. Obese patients were measured with the standard probe. Patient position was changed and an ultrasound scanner was used to locate the measurement window in obese and morbid obese patients. Results show that liver stiffness measurements with Fibroscan (R) is feasible on children using the dedicated probe. Measurement success rate in obese patients is signifcantly improved using the left lateral decubitus position under ultrasound guidance. More patients would therefore benefit from this non invasive method to assess liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.