Liver elastography (FibroScan)

Category: Digestive Tests & Procedures · All digestive tests & procedures

What it is

Liver elastography (commonly FibroScan) is a painless ultrasound-based test that measures liver stiffness, which reflects scarring (fibrosis), and can also estimate fat in the liver.

Why it is done

It is used to assess liver fibrosis in conditions such as fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis and alcohol-related liver disease, helping decide who needs further tests, biopsy or closer monitoring.

How to prepare

You may be asked not to eat for a few hours beforehand, as a recent meal can raise the reading. Otherwise no special preparation is needed.

What happens during the procedure

You lie on your back with your right arm raised. A probe is placed on the skin over the liver and sends painless pulses; the machine takes about ten measurements in a few minutes. It feels like a light flick against the ribs.

Afterwards — recovery & results

You can leave straight away and results are often available immediately to the clinic team, who will explain the score together with your blood tests.

Risks & considerations

The test has no known risks. Readings are less reliable in people with severe obesity, fluid around the liver, or active liver inflammation, and the result is one part of the overall assessment rather than a standalone diagnosis.

Related guides on MedicalVideos.com

Condition guide: cancer

Frequently asked questions

Does a high score mean I have cirrhosis?

Not necessarily. Stiffness rises with scarring but also with inflammation and congestion. Your specialist interprets the number with blood tests and scans before drawing conclusions.

Can FibroScan replace a liver biopsy?

For many people it now avoids the need for biopsy, but biopsy is still used when the cause of liver disease is unclear or extra detail is needed.

Related procedures — Digestive Tests & Procedures

Anorectal physiology and manometry Barium enema Colorectal transit study (marker study)CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)Defecating proctogram (evacuation study)Faecal calprotectin and stool tests

Browse the L section of the A–Z list or return to the Procedures & Tests hub.

Please note: This page is educational information about a medical procedure or test. It does not replace the instructions of your own care team, who know your situation and whose preparation, fasting and medication advice you should follow if it differs from anything here. If you have symptoms that worry you, or an appointment you do not understand, contact your clinical team.