What is Fibroscan® and transient elastography?
A Fibroscan® is a non-invasive device that can measure the stiffness or ‘scarring’ of the liver. It is a simple and painless scan and takes about 15 minutes to perform. A Fibroscan® can help your doctor understand the condition of your liver.
You are required to fast for at least three hours before the scan, although drinking water is fine. Continue to take prescribed medication.
Whilst lying down with your right arm above your head, a probe is placed on the skin over the liver area and a ‘vibration’ wave is released from the probe. It feels like a gentle flick against the skin.
The ultrasound measures how fast the vibration wave travels from the skin, through the liver and back again. This determines the ‘stiffness’ or scarring of the liver.
Ten valid readings must be recorded and an average or ‘median’ figure is calculated by the machine.
There are no risks or potential complications, although patients who are pregnant or those who are fitted with a pacemaker or defibrillator are not able to have a Fibroscan®.
The scan is performed by our Registered Nurse and reported by Dr. Tony Rahman, Consultant Hepatologist. The summary will be provided to the requesting physician or General Practitioner who will discuss it with you at your next visit.
If you or your GP wishes you to see the Hepatologist Dr. Tony Rahman, to further investigate any liver or gastroenterological health, a referral is required and an appointment can be made on 07 3493 5621.
FAQ’s
The registered nurse will inform you of the result on the day but it is recommended that this information be assessed and corroborated with other clinical data (e.g. blood tests).
Fibroscan at Liver Scan Brisbane will incur a fee, concessions available.
Payment is accepted on the day by EFTPOS (Amex is not accepted) or an invoice posted, payable within 30 days.
An appointment is required. Please call 07 3493 5621 to book.
EFTPOS facilities are available on the day, or cash is accepted if bringing the correct amount only.
Referrals are preferred but not essential. A referral can be obtained from your GP or Specialist.
You are required to fast for a minimum of three hours prior to the scan, although sipping water is fine.
The scan probe is placed over the abdomen and therefore it may be easier to wear easy to move items of clothing. Ladies may prefer not to wear a dress.
The manufacturers (Echosens, Paris) do not recommend the use of Fibroscan® in patients who are pregnant or those with pacemakers or cardiac defibrillators.