Fibroscan uses a technique called transient elastography. A specialised probe delivers a small, painless mechanical vibration into your liver, and ultrasound is used to measure how fast that vibration travels through the tissue, this is your Liver Stiffness Measurement (LSM), reported in kilopascals (kPa), which reflects the degree of scarring (fibrosis).

At the same time, the machine measures how the ultrasound signal weakens as it passes through the liver, giving your Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) score in decibels per metre (dB/m), which reflects the amount of fat present (steatosis). Together these two numbers give your doctor a clear picture of your liver's health.

No. Most patients describe the sensation as a light tap or vibration against the skin, similar to a gentle thump. There are no needles, no injections, and no sedation and you remain fully conscious and comfortable throughout.

The probe is simply held against the skin over your right ribcage, in the same way an ultrasound probe is used. The procedure is well tolerated by almost all patients, including those who are needle-phobic or anxious about medical procedures.

Yes. Please avoid eating or drinking anything other than water for at least 3 hours before your appointment. This is one of the most important preparation steps for Fibroscan, eating causes increased blood flow to the liver, which can temporarily and artificially raise your liver stiffness reading.

Our staff will confirm the exact fasting time when you book, and will ask about your last meal when you check in.

A liver biopsy involves inserting a needle through the skin to remove a small sample of liver tissue for laboratory analysis and it is invasive, can be uncomfortable, and carries a small risk of bleeding or other complications.

Fibroscan is completely non-invasive: no needle enters the body at any point. Instead, it estimates fibrosis and fat content using ultrasound-based elastography, sampling a much larger volume of liver tissue than a biopsy typically captures. For many patients, especially those needing regular monitoring, Fibroscan has become the preferred first line option and though in some complex cases your specialist may still recommend a biopsy for a more detailed tissue diagnosis.

Yes, a referral from a GP or specialist is required. You cannot self-refer for a Fibroscan at Matrix Medical Imaging.

Your GP or specialist will assess your risk factors, such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, elevated liver function tests, or known liver disease requiring monitoring and issue a referral accordingly. If you think you may benefit from a Fibroscan, discuss your liver health and risk factors with your GP.

Yes, Fibroscan is bulk billed for eligible Medicare card holders with a valid referral at our Fawkner, Glenroy and Lalor clinics. This means there is no out-of-pocket cost for patients who meet Medicare's clinical criteria.

Please bring your Medicare card and referral form to your appointment. If you are unsure whether you are eligible for a Medicare-rebated Fibroscan, ask your GP and they will be able to advise you before issuing the referral.

Yes, in most cases. Fibroscan machines are equipped with different probe sizes designed for a range of body types, including a larger "XL" probe suited to patients with a higher BMI. Please let our staff know your approximate weight or BMI when booking so we can ensure the most appropriate probe is used.

In a small number of patients with very high BMI or significant fluid in the abdomen (ascites), an accurate reading may not be obtainable and if this occurs, our radiologist will note this in your report and discuss alternative options with your referring doctor.

Fibroscan is currently available at three of our clinics: Fawkner, Glenroy and Lalor. An appointment is required and please call your preferred clinic and our staff will book a suitable time and confirm your fasting instructions.

Your liver stiffness and CAP scores are generated instantly during the scan, then reviewed by our specialist radiologist who prepares a detailed written report. Reports are sent electronically to your referring doctor, typically within 48-72 hours. Please follow up with your GP or specialist to discuss your results and Matrix does not provide results directly to patients.