In order to enlarge its field of application and enhance its performance characteristics, FibroScan® is now equipped with the S probe*, which is more specifically designed for a certain profile of patients, namely children. (S+ is the third generation version of the S probe.)
The ergonomics were redesigned for improved comfort and enhanced performance characteristics.
Description
The Fibroscan® S probe*, with optimised ergonomics, makes it possible to take a reliable measurement with easy handling. It is made up of a single-element ultrasound transducer fixed to the axis of the electro-dynamic transducer. The latter generates a transitory vibration which creates an elastic wave of shear. This wave propagates through the skin, the sub-cutaneous tissues, and then the liver. During propagation of the shear wave, the ultrasound transducer carries out a series of echographic acquisitions (emission/reception) in order to measure the propagation velocity of the shear wave. Liver elasticity is calculated from the value of the propagation velocity of this shear wave. The probe is the only part of the FibroScan® device in contact with the patient, and therefore requires specific disinfection for each patient.
Generally speaking, the probe is disinfected in the following way: head down (transducer toward the floor) the head of the probe is cleaned by means of a disinfectant only, imperatively without alcohol.
Applications
The recommendations for use of the S (paediatric) probe are defined from the morphological data of the patient, in particular the size of his thoracic perimeter (TP). Three examinations are available, corresponding to the depths of specific measurements which take into account the depth of the liver under the skin and the thoracic perimeter.
| probe | Examination | Frequency | depth of measurements | thoracic perimeter * |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | Small 1 (S1) | 5 MHz | From 15 mm to 40 mm | ≤ 45 cm |
| Small 2 (S2) | 5 MHz | From 20 mm to 50 mm | > 45 cm et ≤ 75 cm |
(*) at the xyphoid process
1 inch = 2,54 cm
A specificity offering extensive diagnostic prospects.
A revolution in the field of paediatrics
“With the S probe, we are offering a technology concentrated for the benefit of children.”
The S probe was created to respond to the growing number of children suffering from chronic liver diseases. It gives physicians a better chance to make a diagnosis and an early follow-up of the disease.
Because there are more than 100 diverse and varied liver pathologies which affect children throughout the world. Some of the most common are mucoviscidosis, bile duct diseases, and the danger of the future: Nash.
The S probe, an innovative accessory, is a made-to-order response to the specific diagnostic needs of children from 1 month to 14 years of age.
On account of the specific morphology of these children (more reduced intercostal space, small size liver) Echosens’ teams of experts have developed an effective solution (reduced transducer size, algorithm adapted to measure a liver of small size, etc.).
S probe benefits
| features | the impact on your diagnosis |
|---|---|
| Opuimised ergonomics | Easier handling |
| Light shell | Greater operator comfort |
| A thinner transducer | Passes between the ribs of a child |
| Adapted algorithm | Effectivily measure a small size liver |
Assets of the FibroScan® examination in the child, compared to biopsy
| Restrictive examination | Biopsy | FibroScan® S probe exam |
|---|---|---|
| Anesthesia | Yes (general) | No |
| Hospitalization | Yes (48 hours) | No |
| Preliminary examination | Yes (hepatic echography and a blood coagulation study) | No |
| Harmful examination | Biopsy | FibroScan® S probe exam |
| Complications disagreeable but not severe | Pain or haematoma at the point of needle entry | No |
| Serious complication, wich may, if untreated, be lifethreatening | Concerns less than one case of one thousand biopsies :
| No |