In short
FibroScan is a quick, painless scan that measures how stiff your liver is. Stiffer means more scarring.
You lie on your back with your right arm raised. A probe on the skin sends a gentle pulse. It takes about 10 minutes and there are no needles.
Most centres ask you not to eat for about 3 hours before, because a recent meal can raise the reading. Wear clothes that let the doctor reach your right side.
The result has two numbers: stiffness in kPa (scarring) and CAP (fat). As a rough guide, below 8 kPa is reassuring and 12 kPa or more suggests advanced scarring.
Related questions
Sources
- EASL–EASD–EASO Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of MASLD. J Hepatol 2024;81:492–542. Link
- North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust. What is a Fibroscan and why do I need it? Patient leaflet. Link
- Abaalkhail F, et al. MASLD management in Saudi Arabia: a modified Delphi-based adaptation of international standards. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2026;32(2):104–20. Link
Last updated 2026-10-03. Based on international and Saudi guidelines. Education only: it does not replace your doctor. Read the disclaimer.