Question 1

What makes Elastography Australia different from FibroScan?

Accepted Answer

Elastography Australia uses real-time 2D ultrasound imaging to guide every measurement, while FibroScan uses a 'blind' approach without visualization. This guided technique allows operators to see exactly where they're measuring, avoid vessels, and achieve higher success rates—especially in obese patients where blind devices often struggle.

Question 2

What measurements does Elastography Australia provide?

Accepted Answer

Elastography Australia provides three key outputs: Liver Stiffness Measurement (LSM) in kPa for fibrosis assessment, Ultrasound Attenuation Parameter (UAP) in dB/m for steatosis assessment, and real-time B-mode imaging for visual guidance and documentation.

Question 3

What is the accuracy of Elastography Australia?

Accepted Answer

Clinical studies demonstrate an AUROC of 0.95 for significant fibrosis detection and a 98.4% success rate for valid measurements across all BMI categories. This is significantly higher than the ~80-85% success rate typically seen with blind devices.

Question 4

Does Elastography Australia require multiple probes?

Accepted Answer

No. Elastography Australia uses a single universal probe that works across all patient types, including those with high BMI. Traditional devices often require multiple probes (standard and XL) purchased separately at additional cost.

Question 5

How long does a scan take?

Accepted Answer

A typical Elastography Australia examination takes approximately 2 minutes from start to finish. This is significantly faster than traditional devices which can take 5+ minutes, especially in challenging patients.

Question 6

How much does Elastography Australia cost?

Accepted Answer

Elastography Australia is priced at approximately $45,000 AUD for the complete system, which is roughly half the cost of traditional FibroScan devices. This includes the device, universal probe, training, and standard warranty.

Question 7

What is the typical ROI timeline?

Accepted Answer

Most practices see a return on investment within 6-12 months, depending on scan volume. With MBS rebates available for liver elastography (item 55292), even moderate scan volumes can generate significant revenue quickly.

Question 8

Are there ongoing costs?

Accepted Answer

Operating costs are minimal—primarily staff time (typically 10-15 minutes including patient preparation) and standard equipment maintenance. There are no per-scan consumables required.

Question 9

What warranty is included?

Accepted Answer

Elastography Australia comes with a comprehensive 2-year warranty covering parts and labour. Extended warranty options are available for practices wanting longer coverage.

Question 10

How long does training take?

Accepted Answer

Because of the visual guidance system, most operators become proficient within 1-2 days of hands-on training. This is significantly faster than blind devices which can require weeks of practice to master.

Question 11

What training is included?

Accepted Answer

We provide comprehensive on-site training for your clinical staff, covering device operation, optimal technique, result interpretation, and troubleshooting. Online refresher resources are also available.

Question 12

Is ongoing support available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide technical support via phone and email, with remote diagnostics capability. Field service engineers are available for on-site support when needed.

Question 13

Is Elastography Australia FDA cleared?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Elastography Australia has received FDA 510(k) clearance for liver stiffness measurement, confirming its safety and efficacy for clinical use.

Question 14

Is Elastography Australia CE marked?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Elastography Australia carries CE marking for the European market, indicating compliance with EU medical device regulations.

Question 15

What is the TGA status for Australia?

Accepted Answer

TGA registration for the Australian market is currently in progress. We expect approval soon and will announce availability for Australian practices as soon as registration is complete.

Question 16

Can I bill Medicare for liver elastography?

Accepted Answer

Yes. MBS item number 55292 covers liver elastography performed in appropriate clinical settings. Rebates apply for both GP and specialist settings, making it a viable revenue stream for practices.

Question 17

What clinical guidelines support liver elastography?

Accepted Answer

Multiple guidelines recommend liver elastography, including EASL (European Association for the Study of the Liver), AASLD (American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases), and Australian guidelines for MAFLD management. It's increasingly considered standard of care for liver fibrosis assessment.

Question 18

What space is required?

Accepted Answer

Elastography Australia is a portable device that doesn't require a dedicated room. It can be used in a standard examination room and stored on a small cart or shelf when not in use.

Question 19

What patients are suitable for liver elastography?

Accepted Answer

Liver elastography is suitable for patients with risk factors for liver disease, including obesity/metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, elevated liver enzymes, viral hepatitis (HBV/HCV), excessive alcohol consumption, and patients on hepatotoxic medications.

Question 20

Are there contraindications?

Accepted Answer

Active implantable devices (pacemakers, defibrillators) in the measurement path, pregnancy, and significant ascites are relative contraindications. The visual guidance helps identify ascites that may not be apparent clinically.

Question 21

Can Elastography Australia integrate with our existing systems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Elastography Australia supports DICOM export, HL7 integration, and can connect to your existing PACS/RIS systems. Reports can also be exported as PDFs for manual integration.

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