Fibroscan
A Fibroscan is a type of ultrasound scan that can measure the amount of ‘stiffness’ or scarring within the liver. A healthy liver is soft and elastic. In general, the stiffer the liver, the more scarring/damage there is.
Fibroscan is used to help assess the amount of damage to the liver and to help guide your doctor about your future treatment. It is commonly used in the following conditions:
- Viral hepatitis B and C
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Non –alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Hepatitis C and HIV co-infection
The scan itself is simple and non-invasive. It is quick and painless. There are no risks associated with having the scan, however it is not recommended if you have ascites (fluid within the abdomen).
An alternative to having a fibroscan is a liver biopsy. However, this procedure, which involves passing a needle into the liver to remove a small piece of it to be analysed, does have risks and will only be performed if necessary.
Selfcare and more information
The Fibroscan needs to be performed on an empty stomach. You are advised not to eat for 3 hours before the procedure.
The fibroscan takes about 10 minutes. You will be asked to lie on your back on the examination couch, pull up your top to expose your abdomen and raise your right arm above your head.
Some jelly will be applied to the skin and a probe is then placed over the top right side of your abdomen (where your liver is located). The probe is then used to take measurements.
After the scan is complete you can go home and carry out your normal daily activities. It will be ok for you to return to work.
The results of your fibroscan will go back to the doctor who requested the scan. They will then interpret them alongside other clinical information such as ultrasound results, and your liver function tests.
Waiting for a specialist opinion
If you have been referred for a specialist opinion your details will be reviewed and it may be recommended that you are seen by a hospital clinician. Information to support you in choosing your preferred hospital, including waiting times can be found using the links below.
How long will I wait?
If a hospital assessment and/or treatment is clinically recommended your information will be sent to a specialist. Click below to find out more about waiting times for routine hospital assessment and/or treatment.