FibroScan©

A FibroScan© (also known as transient elastography) is a non-invasive diagnostic test used to assess the health of the liver. It measures liver stiffness and the degree of fatty change (steatosis) in the liver without the need for a liver biopsy.

The test uses ultrasound technology to send painless vibrations through the liver, measuring how quickly they travel — a stiffer liver indicates more scarring (fibrosis). It is quick, painless, and can be performed in an outpatient setting.

A FibroScan^© is commonly used to evaluate conditions such as:

• Chronic hepatitis B or C
• Fatty Liver also known as Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Autoimmune liver disease
• Cirrhosis and liver fibrosis staging
• Monitoring response to treatment

The test helps your doctor assess liver health, stage liver disease, and guide further management.

Why is this test done?

A FibroScan^© is most commonly used to evaluate and monitor liver disease without the risks associated with a liver biopsy. It provides a fast, reliable measurement of liver stiffness and fat content.

It is often recommended when liver disease is suspected or when your doctor needs to monitor disease progression, such as:

• Elevated liver enzymes on blood tests
• Suspected liver fibrosis or cirrhosis
• Fatty liver on prior imaging
• Monitoring of patients with chronic/long term liver disease

The test helps your doctor quantify liver damage and plan appropriate treatment.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation is straightforward. You will typically be asked to:

• Fast for at least 3 hours before the test
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior
• Inform your doctor of any medications you are taking
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to the abdomen
• If an ultrasound on the same day, please do the FibroScan^© first if you can, as the gel from the ultrasound can make the f FibroScan^© more difficult to do

No sedation is required, and you may resume normal activities immediately after the test.

What happens during the test?

The procedure is simple and typically takes 10 to 15 minutes:

• You will lie on your back with your right arm raised
• A small probe is placed on the skin over the liver (right side of the abdomen)
• The probe emits gentle vibrations and records ultrasound signals
• Multiple readings are taken to ensure accuracy
• Results are usually available immediately after the test

The test is painless. You may feel a mild, brief vibration on your skin during the procedure.

Understanding your results

FibroScan provides two key measurements:

• Liver Stiffness Measurement (LSM): Measured in kilopascals (kPa), this reflects the degree of liver fibrosis. Higher values indicate greater scarring.
• Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP): Measured in decibels per metre (dB/m), this reflects the degree of fatty change (steatosis) in the liver.

Your doctor will interpret these results in the context of your overall clinical picture and advise on the next steps.

FibroScan© is a very safe and well-tolerated procedure. There are no significant risks. However, results may be less accurate in:

• Patients with a high body mass index (BMI)
• Those who have recently eaten a large meal
• Patients with ascites (fluid in the abdomen)
• Active hepatic inflammation or elevated liver enzymes

In some cases, your doctor may recommend additional tests such as a liver biopsy for a more definitive assessment.