What is a Fibroscan?
A Fibroscan, also called liver elastography, is a painless test that measures liver stiffness and fat content without cutting the skin or using needles. It gives Dr. Gattani a picture of how much scarring (fibrosis) or fat has built up in the liver.
Why is a Fibroscan done?
- To check for fatty liver disease
- To monitor liver damage from alcohol use or viral hepatitis
- To assess or stage cirrhosis (advanced liver scarring)
- To track changes in the liver over time with repeat testing
How to prepare for a Fibroscan
Light fasting for 2 to 3 hours before the test is often advised, since this can make the reading more accurate. No injections or medicines are needed beforehand.
What happens during the test
You will lie on your back with your right arm raised behind your head. A probe, similar to an ultrasound probe, is placed on the skin over the liver. It sends a small painless vibration into the liver and measures how fast it travels, which tells the doctor how stiff the liver is. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
What happens after the test
There is no recovery time needed. You can resume your normal activities immediately. Results are often available the same day.
Is a Fibroscan safe?
Fibroscan is a non-invasive, painless test with no known risks. It may not be suitable in certain situations, such as significant fluid in the abdomen or during pregnancy — Dr. Gattani will advise if this applies to you.
Frequently asked questions
No. Most patients feel only a mild vibration on the skin, similar to a light tap.
A regular ultrasound creates a picture of the liver's shape and structure. A Fibroscan specifically measures liver stiffness and fat content, which relates to scarring and fatty liver disease.
This depends on your condition. Dr. Gattani may suggest repeating it periodically to track changes in your liver over time.
Light fasting of 2 to 3 hours is often advised for a more accurate reading, though your doctor will confirm what's needed for your test.