1.FibroScan is a non-invasive, ultrasound-based test that measures the stiffness of your liver to assess both fibrosis (scarring) and steatosis (fat accumulation). It is a painless, quick alternative to a liver biopsy and is used to diagnose and monitor liver conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis.
How it works
A technician applies a water-based gel to your skin over the liver and places a probe against the area.
The probe sends out sound waves that travel into the liver and bounce back, which is felt as a gentle vibration.
The device measures the time it takes for the sound waves to return, which determines the liver’s stiffness.
The stiffer the liver, the more likely it is to have scarring or fat.
The test is quick, usually taking about 5 to 10 minutes, and you can return to your usual activities immediately afterward.
What it measures
Fibrosis: The level of scarring in the liver, which indicates damage from chronic liver disease.
Steatosis: The amount of fat in the liver, a condition often seen in fatty liver disease.
Benefits
Non-invasive: It does not involve any needles, anesthesia, or incisions.
Painless: The procedure is quick and does not cause pain.
Fast: It is a quick outpatient procedure that provides results quickly.
Safe: It does not involve radiation or contrast agents.
Repeatable: The test can be repeated frequently to monitor disease progression or the effectiveness of treatment.
Conditions it helps diagnose and monitor
Fatty liver disease, Hepatitis B and C, Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), Alcohol-related liver damage, and Cirrhosis.
Lunar DXA Scanner – Bone density & osteoporosis screening
A Lunar DEXA scan is a brand name for a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) test used to measure bone density to screen for osteoporosis. It is a quick, painless, and safe procedure that uses a very low dose of radiation to assess bone strength in areas like the hip, spine, and forearm. The results, which include T-scores and Z-scores, help doctors evaluate fracture risk and determine if treatment is needed.
What happens during the scan
Preparation: No special preparation is needed, but you should inform your doctor if you are pregnant or have had a recent contrast dye scan. You may be asked to remove clothing with metal and change into a gown.
The procedure: You will lie on a table while a mechanical arm passes over your body, taking measurements of your bones. The scan is painless and takes about 20 minutes to complete.
After the scan: You can return to your normal activities immediately. Results are typically available within a couple of days.
What the results mean
T-score: This compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult. A score of -1 or above is considered normal. A score between -1 and -2.5 indicates low bone density (osteopenia), and a score of -2.5 or below indicates osteoporosis.
Z-score: This compares your bone density to what is expected for someone of your age, sex, and ethnicity. It is particularly useful for children and younger adults.
Risk assessment: Doctors use these scores along with other risk factors, such as age, medical history, and medications, to assess your overall risk for fractures and decide on any necessary treatment.
Who should get screened
Screening is recommended for women aged 65 and older and men aged 70 and older.
It is also recommended for postmenopausal women and men over 50 who have risk factors for osteoporosis, such as a family history, low body weight, smoking, or certain medications.
ECG – Heart health monitoring
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a painless, non-invasive test that records the heart’s electrical activity to monitor its rhythm and function. It helps doctors diagnose and monitor heart conditions like arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other structural heart problems by capturing the electrical signals generated with each heartbeat. This test can be done in a clinic with a standard machine, or using portable devices like a Holter monitor or smartwatch for continuous at-home monitoring.
What an ECG does
Records electrical signals: Electrodes are placed on the skin to measure the electrical signals the heart produces as it beats.
Analyzes heart rhythm: It shows how often the heart beats (rate) and how regularly it beats (rhythm).
Detects issues: ECGs help diagnose a range of issues, including:
Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
Heart attacks (past and present)
Blocked or narrowed coronary arteries
How well a pacemaker or other treatments are working
How it’s performed
Standard ECG: A technician will place electrodes on your chest, arms, and legs. The actual recording takes a few seconds, but the process of applying the electrodes takes a few minutes.
Portable ECG: For continuous or longer-term monitoring, a doctor may recommend a portable device like a Holter monitor that you wear at home for a day or more.
Preparing for an ECG
No special preparation is usually needed, but it’s best to avoid lotions and caffeine beforehand for a more accurate reading.
Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking and any allergies, especially to adhesive tapes.
You may be asked to remove some clothing or your bra so electrodes can be placed on your chest.
What to expect during and after the test
During the test: An ECG is painless. You may be asked to lie still or, in the case of a stress test, walk on a treadmill.
After the test: There may be some mild discomfort when the electrodes are removed. In rare cases, skin irritation can occur where the electrodes were placed.
Fundus Examination – Comprehensive eye care for diabetics
A dilated fundus examination is a comprehensive eye exam crucial for people with diabetes to detect and monitor diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to vision loss if not treated. This exam involves dilating the pupils to allow a doctor to get a clear view of the back of the eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels, to spot early signs like microaneurysms. For those with diabetes, annual exams are generally recommended to protect vision from complications like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinopathy.
What the exam involves
Pupil dilation: Eye drops are used to widen the pupils, providing a wider view of the back of the eye.
Detailed visualization: An eye care professional uses a special instrument called an ophthalmoscope and a high-powered lens to examine the retina, optic nerve, and macula.
Detection of damage: The doctor looks for early signs of diabetic retinopathy, such as tiny leaks or blood vessels on the retina.
Why it’s important for people with diabetes
Diabetic retinopathy: Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems or blindness if not treated. A fundus exam is the “gold standard” for detecting this condition early.
Other eye conditions: The exam also helps identify other diabetes-related eye issues like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic macular edema.
Monitoring and management: Regular exams allow for the monitoring of any changes, enabling early intervention and treatment to protect your vision.
Annual screenings: Annual eye exams are recommended for people with diabetes, as the disease can be present for years before symptoms become noticeable.
Technology in screening
Retinal photography: Cameras can take high-quality images of the retina, which can be used for screening. However, this is not a replacement for a full dilated eye exam, which is still necessary for initial and follow-up assessments.
Artificial intelligence (AI): FDA-approved AI systems can analyze retinal images to detect diabetic retinopathy, offering a new screening tool.
