Liver elastography (FibroScan)
FibroScan · liver stiffness test · liver elastography · transient elastography
A machine uses ultrasound to measure how stiff your liver is. No needles and no radiation.
To find out if the liver has stiffened, which is called fibrosis: with hepatitis, fatty liver, frequent drinking, or changes in blood tests.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 15 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Usually no food for 3 hours. After eating, the liver gets stiffer for a while. Check the exact time with your clinic.
- Water. A little plain water is usually fine.
- Clothes. Comfortable clothes, so you can easily uncover your right side.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Past ultrasound, elastography, and liver test results
- A tissue to wipe off the gel
How it goes
- You lie on your back
- You put your right arm behind your head. This widens the gaps between your ribs
- A little gel is put on your right side
- The probe is placed between your ribs
- The machine takes about 10 measurements. Lie still
What you'll feel
- Each measurement feels like a light push or tap
- It does not hurt
Afterwards
- The gel is wiped off, and you can eat right away
- The result is usually given right away, as numbers
- Your doctor will explain what the numbers mean
Common questions
Is FibroScan the same as a liver ultrasound?
No. An ultrasound shows what the liver looks like. Elastography measures how stiff it is. They are often done together.
Why do I need an empty stomach for FibroScan?
After eating, the liver gets stiffer for a while, and the result may be too high. So it is usually 3 hours without food.