Hope you don't use a microwave. :)
If you're a stage 3, I'd re-evaluate your doctor's advice. My understanding is that ultrasounds and MRI's are standard protocol for monitoring those with significant liver damage but maybe I'm wrong here.
Last week my doc rx'd both an ultrasound and a CT scan (with contrast). From what he said, he was looking for different things, fluids with the u/s, and any masses/tumors with the CT. BTW, that contrast stuff feels pretty icky going in. We're not yet at the point of a forward-looking maintenance regimine. However, your question is already on my running list of questions that I will ask when the right time comes. That list seem to be getting longer.
cdm says: Hope you don't use a microwave. :)
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Well, I'll tell you one thing. If I'm going to put a piece of liver in the microwave, it certainly won't be mine. But not to worry, CDM, if you keep it up you may be good for a night light one day. LOL.
On more serious note, the first doctor said the reason he alternated all three was because each tended to be best for looking at different things. I see my doctor today and if he has a good case for me to have a Cat Scan, I'll listen. But I still think the long-term advice of minimizing cat scans is sound if the doctor is not necessarily looking for something specific and is in a long-term monitoring mode.
I'm a stage 0 Grade 1, and I will do the ultrasound then 6 months later the bx; then 6 months later another ultrasound, etc. I would rotate back and forth between the 2 tests, for awhile any way. After awhile I would think having just 1 test a year would be fine.
BEAGLE