Ultrasound based UGAP Technique for Simple Liver Fat Estimation

Non-Invasive Quantification of Liver Fat

What is UGAP?

Ultrasound-Guided Attenuation Parameter (UGAP) is an advanced, non-invasive diagnostic tool used to assess liver fat content. This innovative ultrasound-based technique measures the attenuation of sound waves as they pass through liver tissue, providing a reliable estimate of liver steatosis (fat accumulation). UGAP is a simple, fast, and painless alternative to traditional invasive methods for evaluating fatty liver disease.

At Central Gastro, we use state-of-the-art UGAP technology to deliver accurate liver fat assessments, enabling timely diagnosis and effective management of fatty liver conditions.

Why is UGAP Important?

• Early Detection of Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/MASLD): Identifies fat accumulation in the liver, even in early stages.
• Non-Invasive Monitoring: Provides a safe method to track disease progression or treatment response.
• Quick and Painless: A simple outpatient procedure without the need for needles or sedation.
• Guides Treatment: Helps clinicians tailor personalized treatment plans based on accurate liver health data.

Who Should Consider UGAP?

UGAP is recommended for individuals at risk of or experiencing symptoms of fatty liver disease, including:

• Obesity or Overweight Individuals: With associated metabolic syndrome.
• Type 2 Diabetes Patients: Who are prone to developing liver fat.
• High Cholesterol or Triglycerides: A common risk factor for fatty liver.
• Suspected Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Identifying liver fat accumulation.
• Individuals with Elevated Liver Enzymes: Seeking further evaluation of liver health.

What to Expect During UGAP?

1. Preparation:

• No special preparation is required. Fasting for 3–4 hours before the procedure may be recommended to improve accuracy.

2. Procedure:

• The patient lies comfortably while an ultrasound probe is placed on the abdomen.
• The UGAP device measures the attenuation of sound waves as they pass through the liver tissue.
• The procedure is painless, taking about 15–20 minutes.

3. Results:

• UGAP provides a quantitative estimate of liver fat content.
• The results are analyzed by your doctor to guide diagnosis and treatment planning.

Conditions Diagnosed with UGAP

• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Detects and quantifies fat in the liver.
• Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): Tracks disease severity and progression.
• Alcohol-Related Liver Disease: Evaluates liver fat caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
• Liver Health Monitoring: Helps assess the impact of weight loss or other interventions on liver fat.

Benefits of UGAP

• Non-Invasive and Painless: Eliminates the need for invasive liver biopsies.
• Quick and Convenient: Performed on an outpatient basis with no downtime.
• Safe for All Patients: No exposure to radiation or harmful substances.
• Accurate Results: Provides reliable data for effective diagnosis and treatment.
• Cost-Effective: A more affordable option compared to other advanced imaging techniques.

When to Consider UGAP for Liver Fat Estimation

You should consider UGAP if you:

• Have risk factors for fatty liver disease, such as obesity or diabetes.
• Experience symptoms like fatigue, abdominal discomfort, or unexplained weight gain.
• Need to monitor liver fat reduction during weight loss or lifestyle interventions.