What is a Fibroscan (Liver Elastography)?
Non-invasive liver stiffness test using transient elastography at Anubhav Life Care — Barasat's NABL-accredited diagnostic polyclinic near N24 District Govt Hospital. Painless, quick, and affordable.
Fibroscan Test — Non-Invasive Liver Assessment
A fibroscan (also known as transient elastography or liver elastography) is a specialised, non-invasive diagnostic test that measures liver stiffness. Increased liver stiffness indicates the presence of fibrosis — scarring of the liver tissue caused by chronic liver conditions.
The fibroscan device works by sending a mild, painless vibration (shear wave) through the liver using an ultrasound probe placed on the right side of the chest. The speed at which the wave passes through the liver tissue is measured — stiffer liver tissue causes the wave to travel faster, indicating more fibrosis. The result is expressed in kilopascals (kPa).
In addition to liver stiffness, modern fibroscan machines also measure the Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP score), which quantifies the amount of fat in the liver. This makes fibroscan an essential tool for diagnosing and monitoring both liver fibrosis and fatty liver disease (steatosis) in a single, quick examination.
Who Needs a Fibroscan?
Liver Conditions
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
- Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
- Alcohol-related liver disease
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Primary biliary cholangitis
- Liver cirrhosis monitoring
Risk Factors & Symptoms
- Elevated liver enzymes (SGOT/SGPT/ALP)
- Obesity or metabolic syndrome
- Type 2 diabetes with suspected liver involvement
- Long-term medication use affecting the liver
- Family history of liver disease
- Unexplained fatigue or abdominal discomfort
How to Prepare for a Fibroscan Test
Preparation for a fibroscan is straightforward. Following these instructions ensures accurate and reliable results:
Fasting
Do not eat or drink anything (except water) for 2-3 hours before the test.
Avoid Alcohol
Avoid consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before your fibroscan appointment.
No Heavy Meals
Avoid large, fatty meals the night before the test as they can temporarily affect liver stiffness readings.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear loose-fitting clothes that allow easy access to the right side of your abdomen and chest.
Medications
Take your regular medications as prescribed unless your doctor advises otherwise.
No Sedation Required
Fibroscan requires no anaesthesia or sedation. You can drive yourself to and from the appointment.
Fibroscan Procedure — What to Expect
The fibroscan procedure is completely painless and non-invasive. The entire test takes approximately 10-15 minutes from start to finish.
Positioning
You lie flat on your back on the examination bed with your right arm raised behind your head to expose the right side of your chest and abdomen.
Probe Placement
The technician applies a small amount of gel and places the fibroscan probe on the skin between the ribs on the right side of your chest, over the area of the liver.
Measurements
The probe sends a gentle, painless vibration (shear wave) through the liver. You may feel a mild vibrating sensation. Multiple readings (usually 10) are taken to ensure accuracy.
CAP Score Assessment
Simultaneously, the device measures the Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) to assess the degree of fat accumulation in the liver.
Instant Results
Results are available immediately after the test. Your gastroenterologist will review the liver stiffness (kPa) and CAP score (dB/m) to determine your fibrosis and steatosis stage.
Understanding Your Fibroscan Results
Liver Stiffness (kPa) — Fibrosis Staging
* Reference ranges may vary slightly based on the underlying liver condition. Consult your gastroenterologist for personalised interpretation.
CAP Score (dB/m) — Fatty Liver Grading
* CAP score helps quantify fat in the liver tissue. Higher values indicate more fat deposition, a key marker for NAFLD/NASH.
Fibroscan vs Liver Biopsy — Why Choose Fibroscan?
Traditionally, liver biopsy was the gold standard for assessing liver fibrosis. However, fibroscan has emerged as a highly reliable, non-invasive alternative for most patients. Here is how they compare:
| Feature | Fibroscan | Liver Biopsy |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Non-invasive (external probe) | Invasive (needle insertion) |
| Pain | Painless | Mild to moderate discomfort |
| Duration | 10-15 minutes | 30-60 minutes + recovery |
| Results | Immediate | 1-2 weeks |
| Complications | None | Risk of bleeding, infection |
| Repeatability | Easily repeatable for monitoring | Not ideal for frequent follow-up |
| Sedation | Not required | Local anaesthesia required |
| Cost | More affordable | Significantly more expensive |
Fibroscan Test Price in Barasat
Anubhav Life Care offers fibroscan testing at affordable prices in Barasat — significantly lower than major hospitals in Kolkata. As an NABL-accredited facility serving 2.5 lakh+ patients with a 4.8-star Google rating, we ensure premium quality at accessible rates.
For the most current fibroscan test pricing, available packages, and any ongoing offers, please contact us directly:
Why Choose Anubhav Life Care for Fibroscan in Barasat?
Expert Gastroenterologists
Fibroscan performed and interpreted by experienced gastroenterologists with MD, DNB qualifications
NABL-Accredited Facility
Quality-assured diagnostics at Barasat's trusted polyclinic near N24 District Govt Hospital
Advanced Equipment
Latest fibroscan technology with CAP score capability for comprehensive liver assessment
Instant Results
Get your fibroscan report immediately after the procedure — no waiting for days
Complete Liver Care
Combined fibroscan, liver function tests, hepatitis screening, and specialist consultation under one roof
2.5 Lakh+ Patients Served
Trusted by the community with a 4.8-star Google rating for reliable, patient-friendly care
Related Liver Tests & Services
Liver Function Test (LFT)
Blood test to check SGOT, SGPT, bilirubin, and liver enzyme levels
Liver Screening Package
Comprehensive liver health assessment including blood tests and imaging
Hepatitis B & C Test
Screening and diagnosis for viral hepatitis infections
Abdominal Ultrasound (USG)
Imaging of liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and abdominal organs
Gastroenterologist Consultation
Expert gastro doctors for liver, digestive, and GI conditions
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Frequently Asked Questions — Fibroscan Test in Barasat
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