FibroScan. (1829)

What is FibroScan?

FibroScan is a test used to look at the liver.  It helps your provider look for liver damage. The test uses sound waves from a special wand. The wand is placed on the skin of the belly that is over the liver.  The test will check 2 things:

• the amount of fat in the liver (called steatosis)
• any scars in the liver (called fibrosis)

Fat or scars in the liver can be caused by liver disease. 

FibroScan testing is quick, painless and easy.  

Your doctor may order a FibroScan test if you have one of these liver problems:

• Autoimmune Hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• Genetic Diseases (such as Hemochromatosis and Wilson’s Disease)
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
• Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)

It is also used after liver transplant to look at liver health.

How is the FibroScan done?

1. Your child will lie on their back.  
2. Your child will raise their right arm behind their head.  
3. Your child will cross their right leg over their left leg.  This will help us see the right side of their belly area.  
4. A water-based gel will be put on a wand.  Then the wand is put on the skin over your child’s liver.

What should you know about the FibroScan

• Your child will not need any medicines to make them sleepy.
• Your child should wear loose fitting clothing.
• The FibroScan takes about 5 minutes.
• You cannot hear the sound waves from the wand.
• During the test, your child may feel a little shaking on the skin that touches the tip of the wand.  This happens as the ultrasound waves are sent.

What happens after the FibroScan Test?

The computer will make a report of the results from your test. The results will be given to your doctor. You will be given the results during your clinic visit.