Introducing

Fibroscan

WHAT IS A FIBROSCAN?

A FibroScan is a painless, non-invasive test that measures the stiffness of your liver. Liver stiffness is an indicator of scarring (fibrosis) - the more scarring present, the stiffer the liver feels.

FibroScan uses a technology called transient elastography, which sends gentle vibrations through the liver and measures how quickly they travel. The result helps your doctor assess the health of your liver without the need for a biopsy.

A FibroScan is NOT a liver ultrasound. It measures liver stiffness and fat content - information that standard imaging such as ultrasound, CT or MRI cannot provide. FibroScan complements these by measuring tissue properties rather than visualising anatomy.

Why Fibroscan?

Key Clinical Benefits for Your Patients

✓ Non-invasive - no needles, no biopsy, no sedation required

✓ Quick and convenient - scan completed in approximately 10

minutes, with no recovery time needed

✓ Measures liver stiffness (fibrosis) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) for steatosis (fatty infiltration)

✓ Accurate staging of liver fibrosis from F0 (none) to F4 (cirrhosis)

✓ Quantifies fatty liver (steatosis) graded S0-S3

✓ Safe for all patients including those on anticoagulants

Ideal for Patients With:

✓ Type 2 diabetes

✓ Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

✓ Chronic hepatitis B or C

✓ Metabolic syndrome / obesity

Why Would My Doctor Refer Me for a FibroScan?

Your doctor may have recommended a FibroScan for one of the following reasons:

  • Your blood tests or ultrasound have suggested possible liver changes.

  • Your doctor wants to monitor how your liver condition is progressing over time.

  • You are being considered for, or are already on, treatment for a liver condition.

  • You have been diagnosed with hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease (NAFLD/MASLD), or alcohol-related liver disease.

What Happens During the Scan?

The procedure is straightforward and takes around 10–15 minutes. Here's what to expect:

  • You'll lie on your back and expose the right side of your abdomen.

  • A small probe, similar to an ultrasound probe, is gently placed on your skin between your ribs, over your liver.

  • You'll feel a mild, painless vibration as the probe sends pulses through your liver. Most people find it completely comfortable.

  • The device records up to 10 readings to ensure an accurate result. This takes just a few minutes.

  • Results are typically available the same day, but are reviewed by one of our doctors before being sent to your GP, usually within a few days.

HOW TO PREPARE

DO

  • Fast (no food or drink except water) for at least 3 hours before your appointment

  • Drink water as normal - staying hydrated is fine

  • Take your regular medications as prescribed

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing

AVOID

  • Eating a large meal within 2 hours of your appointment

  • Strenuous exercise immediately before the scan

After your appointment:

You can resume your normal activities immediately after the test, there is no recovery time needed.

Limitations of FibroScan

While FibroScan is a useful and widely used tool, there are some factors that can affect its accuracy:

  • A high BMI or obesity may make it harder to get accurate readings

  • Inflammation (active hepatitis flare) can temporarily increase stiffness readings

  • Ascites (fluid around the liver) can interfere with the test

  • Recent food intake can slightly increase stiffness measurements — this is why fasting beforehand is important

If your result is inconclusive or technically difficult, your doctor may request the test to be repeated, or may consider additional investigations.