Non-invasive Test for Liver Scarring (Fibroscan)

How Fibroscan Works

Fibroscan uses a probe similar to an ultrasound device, which is placed on the skin over the liver. The probe sends out painless vibrations that measure how stiff the liver tissue is.

• Healthy liver tissue is soft and flexible.
• Fibrotic or scarred liver tissue is stiffer.

The results are given as a numerical value that indicates the degree of scarring. The test also provides a measure of liver fat (controlled attenuation parameter or CAP score), helping to detect fatty liver disease.

The procedure takes about 10–15 minutes, requires no sedation, and you can return to normal activities immediately.

Why is Fibroscan Important?

Traditionally, a liver biopsy was required to diagnose fibrosis, but this involves needles, sedation, and potential complications. Fibroscan offers a safe, non-invasive alternative that can be repeated regularly to monitor changes over time.

Benefits include:

• Non-invasive: No needles, no pain, no recovery time.
• Quick and convenient: Performed in minutes during an outpatient visit.
• Accurate: Provides reliable results on liver stiffness and fat.
• Repeatable: Allows ongoing monitoring of disease progression or improvement.
• Cost-effective: Reduces the need for unnecessary biopsies.

What Fibroscan Results Mean

Fibroscan results provide an estimate of fibrosis severity:

• Low stiffness: Healthy or minimal scarring.
• Moderate stiffness: Some fibrosis present — lifestyle changes and monitoring advised.
• High stiffness: Advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis — requires close monitoring and treatment.

Your hepatologist will interpret results in the context of your overall health, blood tests, and scans.

Why Choose Fibroscan with a Specialist?

While Fibroscan is a simple test, accurate interpretation requires expertise. A hepatologist can:

Benefits include:

• Explain results clearly and what they mean for your liver health.
• Integrate findings with blood tests, imaging, and lifestyle factors.
• Develop a personalised plan for treatment or monitoring.
• Track changes over time to measure progress.