A FibroScan is a painless test that measures liver stiffness and fat to assess scarring (fibrosis) without a biopsy. At LPHG it costs £250 and needs no GP referral. A trained operator performs the scan and a clinician interprets the readings, with a written report issued within 24 hours.
What this scan shows
- Liver stiffness as a measure of fibrosis
- The amount of fat in the liver (CAP score)
- A staging estimate from healthy to cirrhosis
- A baseline to monitor liver health over time
- The response to lifestyle or treatment changes
- Whether onward specialist referral is needed
What it cannot show
- The appearance of cysts or masses, which need an ultrasound
- A specific cause of liver disease on its own
- Reliable readings where there is significant fluid (ascites)
Our FibroScan measures liver stiffness and fat without a biopsy, giving a clear assessment of scarring and fatty change.
It pairs naturally with a liver ultrasound, which shows the appearance of the liver, and provides a baseline you can track over time.
Book your fibroscan (liver elastography)
Report within 24 hours. No GP referral needed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral for a FibroScan?
No. You can book a FibroScan directly. If the reading is raised, a clinician can advise on the next steps, including onward specialist referral where needed.
Is a FibroScan the same as an ultrasound?
No. A FibroScan measures how stiff the liver is, which reflects scarring, while an ultrasound shows its appearance. The two tests are often used together for a fuller assessment.
Does it hurt?
No. A probe is rested on the skin over the liver and sends a painless pulse to measure stiffness. The test takes only a few minutes and involves no needles.
Do I need to prepare?
Please avoid food for three hours before the scan, as recent eating can affect the readings. You may drink water during this time.
When will I get my results?
The readings are explained to you and a written report, including your liver stiffness and fat scores, is issued within 24 hours.