Person wearing a white t-shirt with a simple abstract blue design representing their liver.

Non-Invasive Insight into Liver Health

Fibroscan uses advanced ultrasound technology for a quick, non-invasive liver fibrosis assessment, offering accurate results in minutes to monitor conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver, and cirrhosis.

Fibroscan
(Liver Fibrosis Assessment)

Prevention Starts with a

What is Fibroscan
(Liver Fibrosis Assessment)?

Fibroscan uses Vibration Controlled Transient Elastography (VCTE) technology to non-invasively measure liver stiffness and shear wave speed, identifying liver fibrosis or scarring. Unlike ultrasounds that detect cancer or gallstones, Fibroscan assesses liver health. Elevated measurements may indicate severe fibrosis or cirrhosis.

When a Fibroscan becomes necessary

Ongoing symptoms may indicate an underlying condition. Consider seeing a gastro specialist if you're experiencing some of these symptoms

Fibroscan helps in assessing the need for:

Prognosis and need for treatment

Monitoring disease progression or regression via serial measurements

Further assessment including liver biopsy

How Does Fibroscan Work?

During a Fibroscan, you lie on an examination couch with your right arm above your head. A probe is placed on your abdomen, sending an elastic wave through your liver. Ultrasound tracks this wave to measure liver stiffness. Despite slight unease, the procedure is painless. Ten readings are taken for accuracy, and the process takes 10-20 minutes. Results are displayed immediately.

What Happens During Your Procedure?

Male patient lying on a medical bed with his arms behind his head, preparing for a medical procedure, wearing a blue gown.

01
Positioning

You lie on your back with your right arm raised above your head.

Doctor using an ultrasound device on a patient's abdomen, performing a liver scan or abdominal ultrasound procedure.

02
Probe Placement

The doctor places the Fibroscan probe on your skin over the liver.

Blue waves representing ultrasound technology, symbolizing the use of sound waves for medical imaging.

03
Shear Wave Transmission

The probe sends painless vibrations into the liver to measure stiffness.

Close-up of a medical imaging screen showing liver scans and diagnostic results, representing advanced medical imaging technologies.

04
Results

The measurements are instantly analyzed to assess liver fibrosis or stiffness.

Meet Your Endoscopy & Gastrointestinal Specialists

Dr. John Hsiang

Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist

MBChB(NZ), FRACP(Australasia), MD(Doctorate), FRCP(Edinburgh), FAMS(Gastro)

Dr. John Hsiang is a seasoned gastroenterologist and hepatologist with over two decades of clinical experience. His distinguished career includes training at Otago Medical School and the Prince of Wales Hospital in Hong Kong, specializing in liver disease and gastrointestinal disorders. Dr. Hsiang is dedicated to patient education, empowering individuals with the knowledge and confidence to manage their health.

Dr John Hsiang in blue scrubs seated, smiling confidently, representing professional gastroenterology care.

Common Questions about Fibroscan

How should I prepare for a colonoscopy?

Discuss Medical History: Inform your doctor about your medical conditions and medications. Adjust or stop certain medications if needed. Adjust Your Diet: Avoid high-fiber foods two days before and switch to a clear liquid diet before the procedure. Take Necessary Medications: Inform your doctor of all medications, including over-the-counter ones. Adjust or stop certain medications as advised. Bowel Cleansing Preparation: Follow instructions to drink a special solution to flush out the colon for clear visibility. Fast Before Procedure: Fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure; clear liquids may be allowed up to 4 hours prior.
How soon will I receive the results after my colonoscopy?

Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings shortly after the procedure. In some cases, biopsies may be taken during the colonoscopy, and results from these tests may take a little longer to process. Your specialist will follow up with you in clinic to discuss further results in detail.
Is there any possible discomfort or risk during and after the colonoscopy?

While complications are rare, they may include bleeding, perforation of the colon, or adverse reactions to sedation. The risk of bleeding and perforation is usually around 0.1% (or 1 in 1000), these are usually related to the therapeutic procedure undertaken during the colonoscopy, for example, removal of polyps. Your healthcare provider will discuss the potential risks and address any concerns you may have.
Are there restrictions following a colonoscopy?

It is recommended to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Your healthcare provider may also advise you to avoid certain medications, such as blood thinners, for a period. If biopsies were taken during the colonoscopy, your doctor may provide specific instructions on how to care for the area where they were taken.
What can I eat after the colonoscopy?

After the procedure, you may need some time to recover from the sedation. Your healthcare provider will provide guidance on when it’s safe to resume eating and drinking. Typically, it is recommended to stick to a light diet initially, and then gradually reintroduce solid foods. Avoid heavy or spicy meals that may irritate your digestive system. Foods that are easy to digest, such as soup, crackers, and toast, are usually recommended for the first meal. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids to flush out the remaining sedation medication from your system.
Do I need a second colonoscopy if my first one was normal?

The recommended frequency for a routine colonoscopy depends on individual risk factors, such as family cancer history, personal health history and the number of polyps removed during the index colonoscopy. It is best to follow the advice of your healthcare provider regarding when to schedule your next screening. In some cases, a second colonoscopy may be necessary if there are abnormal findings or persistent symptoms after your first procedure. Your doctor will discuss the need for further tests or procedures with you.