FibroScan® Liver Imaging

What is a FibroScan®?

FibroScan® is a quick, painless test that measures liver stiffness and fat content to assess your liver health, without needles, surgery, or radiation. This advanced ultrasound-based technology called transient elastography provides a safer alternative to liver biopsy for detecting fibrosis (scarring) and steatosis (fatty changes) in your liver.

During a FibroScan exam, gentle sound waves pass through your liver. The speed at which they travel indicates liver stiffness—stiffer tissue suggests more scarring. The test also measures fat accumulation using a Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) score. Together, these measurements help doctors diagnose and monitor liver diseases such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.

FibroScan® is particularly valuable for:

  • Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and NASH
  • Chronic hepatitis B and C
  • Alcoholic liver disease and cirrhosis
  • Monitoring liver health after transplant
  • Avoiding invasive liver biopsy

FibroScan® Services at American Health Imaging

American Health Imaging is in-network with 99% of insurance plans and offers FibroScan services with transparent self-pay pricing for those without insurance coverage.

FibroScan® Imaging Centers Near You

Find convenient FibroScan® liver imaging at American Health Imaging. We offer same-day and next-day appointments with extended hours to match your schedule and needs.

Find Your Nearest Fibroscan Imaging Center

What is a FibroScan® Used For?

FibroScan® provides essential information about your liver health that blood tests alone cannot reveal. This non-invasive test directly measures liver stiffness and fat content, allowing doctors to diagnose and monitor liver conditions without the risks of biopsy.

Your doctor may recommend FibroScan® if you have or are at risk for:

  • Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—the most common liver disease in the U.S., affecting up to 25% of adults
  • Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)—a more aggressive form of fatty liver disease
  • Chronic hepatitis B or C
  • Alcoholic liver disease
  • Cirrhosis or advanced liver scarring
  • Need for liver transplant monitoring

Early detection of liver fibrosis helps determine the best treatment approach—whether medications and lifestyle changes are sufficient, or if more aggressive intervention is needed. For patients with early-stage liver disease, FibroScan may reveal that invasive procedures aren’t necessary.

Types of Fibroscan Scans We Offer

A 1.2T High Field Open MRI is a type of Open MRI scanner that has a strong magnet (1.2 Tesla) and an open design, making it more comfortable for people who feel claustrophobic or have a larger body. The Open MRI has an open front and sides designed to provide increased comfort. The “high field” means it has a stronger magnetic field than some other MRI machines, which helps in getting more accurate images.

A 1.5T High Field MRI is a medical imaging machine that uses a strong magnetic field (1.5 Tesla) to create clear and detailed pictures of the inside of your body. The “high field” means it has a stronger magnetic field than some other MRI machines, which helps in getting more accurate images.

A 1.5T Wide Bore MRI is a type of medical imaging machine that uses a strong magnetic field (1.5 Tesla) to take detailed pictures of the inside of your body. The “wide bore” part means the opening of the machine is larger at 27 ½” wide, making it more comfortable for people who feel anxious or are larger in size. Many of our 1.5T Wide Bore MRIs feature faster scanning technology to reduce most exams to 15 minutes.

A 16-slice CT scanner is a medical imaging machine that takes detailed X-ray pictures of your body in thin slices, which are then combined to create a complete image. The “16-slice” part means it can capture 16 slices of images at once, allowing for faster and more detailed scans.

3D mammography, or tomosynthesis, is an advanced x-ray technology that takes multiple images of breast tissue to create a 3-dimensional picture of the breast. It differs from traditional mammography in that traditional mammography yields only a single image. A 3D image of the breast allows for better assessment of masses and reduces the likelihood of a false positive or an unnecessary biopsy.

A 3T MRI is a medical imaging machine that uses an even stronger magnetic field (3 Tesla) to take very detailed pictures of the inside of your body. Because of its high strength, it can capture clearer images and is often used for more complex scans. Often used for prostates and different types of brain imaging. The “wide bore” part means the opening of the machine is larger at 27 ½” wide, making it more comfortable for people who feel anxious or are larger in size.

A 64-slice CT scanner is a medical imaging machine that takes very detailed X-ray pictures of your body by capturing 64 slices of images at once. This allows for faster scans and even more detailed images, which is useful for diagnosing complex conditions. Our 64-slice CT features innovative technology that automates dose according to your size, weight, and anatomy, providing high-quality images with minimal radiation.

ABUS Breast Cancer Screening uses sound waves to create 3D pictures of the breast tissue. ABUS breast cancer screening technology is specifically developed and FDA-approved for women with dense breast tissue.

An arthrogram visualizes the inside of a joint, such as the shoulder, knee, hip, or wrist. A contrast dye is injected into the joint to make the joint structures, including ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and the joint capsule, more visible on X-ray or MRI images.

Coronary Calcium CT – also called Cardiac Scoring – measures calcified (hard) plaque inside the arteries that can grow and restrict blood flow to the muscles of the heart identifying potential Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) before you have symptoms.

A DEXA scan is a medical imaging technique used to measure bone mineral density. It is commonly performed to diagnose osteoporosis or assess the risk of developing fractures as we age.

Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) is a special type of MRI technique that helps doctors see the pathways of nerve fibers in the brain. By looking at these images, doctors can better understand how the brain’s wiring works and diagnose conditions like brain injuries, tumors, or diseases that affect these connections.

Faster scanning MRI technology reduces the time patients spend on the table for scans by up to 50% to an average scan time of less than 15 minutes providing a more comfortable imaging experience for anxious patients or anyone in pain. AI technology delivers high quality images with reduced motion artifacts and noise distortions for the diagnostic insights providers need to determine next steps in patient care.

Fluoroscopy uses injected contrast dye and an X-Ray machine to take a continuous series of X-rays instead of individual snapshots. It is most commonly used to evaluate parts of your body that are moving in order to create a short video of your body system in motion. It is particularly useful for observing the digestive, urinary, respiratory, and reproductive systems and their functioning.

A screening mammography is a specialized X-ray of the breasts that takes images from different angles. These images can reveal abnormalities in breast tissues. This exam is annually recommended for all women over the age of 40.

Our MRI machines use a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to generate detailed images of organs, tissues, bones, and other structures inside the body. With a larger bore or tunnel-like opening compared to traditional MRI machines, our wide-bore MRI provides high quality images without compromising patient comfort.

Our MRI machines use a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to generate detailed images of organs, tissues, bones, and other structures inside the body. With a larger bore or tunnel-like opening compared to traditional MRI machines, our wide-bore MRI provides high quality images without compromising patient comfort.

Myelogram imaging is used to evaluate the spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding structures in the spine with an injectable contrast dye to enhance the visibility of the spinal cord and nerves on X-ray images.

Specialty post processing technology used for brain MRI to assess brain volume and atrophy for neurological diseases including dementia, Alzheimers, seizures, MS lesions and Traumatic Brain Injuries.

The Open Upright MRI, also known as a stand-up MRI, is the only MRI scanner able to scan you in multiple positions, including sitting, standing, bending (for flexion and extension) or lying down. This unique MRI provides natural weight-bearing imaging and is helpful for your doctor to diagnose the area where you experience pain. The Open Upright MRI is open in front of you, behind you, and above you. This open design may be more comfortable for people who feel anxious or are larger in size.

A PET/CT (Positron emission tomography) is a non-invasive exam that uses small amounts of radioactive materials called radiotracers to reveal how internal organs are functioning. The scan takes about 60 minutes and images are captured via CT as your body processes the radioactive material. This offers great insight into the root of the disease process or the source of symptoms.

What to Expect During Your Fibroscan Appointment

Your FibroScan® exam is quick, comfortable, and completely non‑invasive. You’ll lie on your back with your right arm raised while the technologist applies a small amount of water‑based gel to the skin over your liver. A handheld probe is placed on the surface, sending gentle vibration waves through the liver to measure stiffness and fat levels. You may feel a light tapping sensation, but the test is painless. Multiple measurements are taken for accuracy, and the computer analyzes the results immediately.

What makes FibroScan® convenient:

  • Quick exam: 20 minutes or less
  • No needles, incisions, or radiation
  • No anesthesia or recovery time
  • Resume normal activities immediately

Preparation: Fast for 3 hours before your appointment (small sips of water are okay). This ensures accurate results by preventing food and fluid in your digestive tract from interfering with measurements.

Why Choose American Health Imaging for Your Fibroscan

American Health Imaging (AHI) is in-network with 99% of insurance plans for FibroScan imaging and offers transparent pricing, along with experienced technologists, for accurate, comfortable exams.

  • Affordable pricing with self-pay option of just $299 (significantly less than liver biopsy costs)
  • Advanced FibroScan® technology with both standard and XL probes for patients of all body types
  • Same-day and next-day appointments available with convenient scheduling
  • No invasive procedures—completely painless with no needles, no surgery, and no recovery time
  • Board-certified radiologists provide expert interpretation of your results
  • Fast results available to your doctor within 24 hours*
  • With a 97% patient satisfaction score, patients love our compassionate techs and comfortable environment

Schedule Your FibroScan® Today

Scheduling your FibroScan with American Health Imaging is made easy in just a few steps:

  1. Get a referral from your doctor for FibroScan imaging
  2. Contact American Health Imaging of Decatur to schedule your appointment
  3. Fast (no food or drink) for 3 hours before your appointment
  4. Arrive for your quick, painless scan—results available to your doctor within 24 hours

Common Questions About Fibroscan Scans

What is a FibroScan®?

FibroScan® is a quick, painless, non-invasive test that measures liver stiffness and fat content to assess liver health without needles, surgery, or radiation.

How it works:
• Uses ultrasound-like technology called transient elastography
• Gentle sound waves pass through your liver
• Measures liver stiffness, which indicates scarring (fibrosis)
• Measures fat content using a CAP score
• Takes 20 minutes or less
• Provides immediate numerical results

FibroScan® is ideal for:
• Diagnosing and monitoring fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
• Tracking chronic hepatitis B and C
• Assessing alcoholic liver disease and cirrhosis
• Monitoring liver transplant recipients
• Avoiding invasive liver biopsy

Why did my doctor order a FibroScan®?

Your doctor ordered a FibroScan® to evaluate your liver health and detect fibrosis (scarring) or steatosis (fatty changes) that may indicate liver disease.

Common reasons for ordering FibroScan®:
• Abnormal liver function tests (elevated ALT or AST)
• Suspected or confirmed fatty liver disease (NAFLD or NASH)
• Chronic hepatitis B or C monitoring
• Alcohol-related liver disease
• Metabolic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol
• Long-term use of medications that affect the liver
• Family history of liver disease
• Monitoring liver health after transplant

The benefit: FibroScan® provides critical information that blood tests and standard imaging cannot reveal, helping guide treatment decisions without invasive biopsy.

Do I need a referral for a FibroScan®?

Yes, you need a referral (also called a doctor’s order or prescription) to get a FibroScan®.

What your referral does:
• Provides clinical information about your liver condition or risk factors
• Is necessary for insurance coverage
• Ensures the test is medically appropriate for your situation

Once your doctor sends the order to American Health Imaging, we’ll contact you to schedule your appointment and verify your insurance coverage.

Schedule your FibroScan®:
https://americanhealthimaging.com/request-appointment/

How do I schedule a same-day FibroScan®?

Scheduling a same-day FibroScan® at American Health Imaging is easy and convenient.

Flexible scheduling options:
• Call us or request an appointment online
• Same-day and next-day appointments available
• Convenient hours to fit your schedule

Once your referral is received, we can often schedule your scan quickly at our Decatur, Georgia location. Remember to fast for 3 hours before your appointment.

Schedule your FibroScan®:
https://americanhealthimaging.com/request-appointment/

What imaging centers near me offer FibroScan®?

American Health Imaging currently offers FibroScan® at our Decatur, Georgia location in Metro Atlanta.

We offer:
• Same-day and next-day appointments
• Convenient hours
• Ample parking
• Compassionate, experienced staff

View location details:
https://americanhealthimaging.com/location/

What does a FibroScan® measure?

FibroScan® provides two critical measurements that assess liver health.

Liver Stiffness Measurement (LSM):
• Measured in kilopascals (kPa)
• Indicates extent of liver scarring (fibrosis)
• Normal range: 2–7 kPa
• Higher values indicate more scarring
• Maximum reading: 75 kPa

Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) score:
• Measured in decibels per meter (dB/m)
• Indicates fat content in liver cells
• Normal: below 238 dB/m
• Higher values indicate fatty liver disease

Together, these measurements help diagnose and monitor liver disease progression.

Who should get a FibroScan®?

FibroScan® is recommended for anyone with liver disease risk factors or diagnosed liver conditions who needs monitoring without invasive biopsy.

People with risk factors:
• Obesity or overweight (BMI over 25)
• Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
• High cholesterol or triglycerides
• Metabolic syndrome
• Heavy alcohol use
• Family history of liver disease

People with liver conditions:
• NAFLD or NASH
• Chronic hepatitis B or C
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Cirrhosis
• Autoimmune liver diseases
• History of liver transplant

How should I prepare for my FibroScan®?

Preparing for a FibroScan® requires a few simple steps.

Before your appointment:
• Fast for 3 hours (no food or drinks except small sips of water)
• Wear loose clothing with access to the right rib cage
• Bring photo ID and insurance card
• Bring a list of medications

Fasting is important because food and fluid can interfere with measurement accuracy.

What should I expect during a FibroScan®?

During your FibroScan®, you’ll lie comfortably on your back with your right arm raised.

What happens:
• Gel applied to the skin over your liver
• Handheld probe sends gentle vibration waves
• You may feel light tapping, but no pain
• Multiple measurements taken for accuracy
• Exam takes 20 minutes or less

There are no needles, radiation, or recovery time.

What happens after my FibroScan® is complete?

After your FibroScan®, you can resume all normal activities immediately.

After your scan:
• Eat and drink normally
• Take medications as prescribed
• Drive yourself home
• Return to work or exercise

Your doctor receives a written report, and you receive a patient-friendly report via text.

When will I get my FibroScan® results?

Your doctor typically receives results within 24 hours. In urgent cases, results may be available sooner.

You will receive:
• A text message with a link to your imaging report within 48 hours
• Easy-to-understand explanations
• Anatomical diagrams

How accurate is FibroScan® compared to liver biopsy?

FibroScan® is highly accurate for detecting advanced liver scarring, with accuracy rates of 87–94% for severe fibrosis (F3) and cirrhosis (F4).

Key points:
• Excellent at ruling out significant fibrosis
• Samples a larger volume of liver than biopsy
• Can be repeated safely over time
• No risks associated with biopsy

In some cases, additional testing may still be needed.

How long does a FibroScan® take?

The FibroScan® exam takes 20 minutes or less from start to finish.

Unlike biopsy:
• No sedation
• No recovery time
• Immediate numerical results

How much does a FibroScan® cost?

FibroScan® costs vary depending on insurance coverage.

American Health Imaging:
• In-network with 99% of insurance plans
• Offers transparent self-pay pricing
• Verifies coverage and provides cost estimates

FibroScan® can save hundreds to thousands of dollars compared to liver biopsy.

Will my insurance cover FibroScan®?

Most insurance plans cover FibroScan® when medically necessary.

Common covered conditions:
• Chronic hepatitis B or C
• NAFLD or NASH
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Cirrhosis
• Liver transplant monitoring

We verify coverage and handle pre-authorization.

What is the difference between FibroScan® and a regular ultrasound?

Regular ultrasound shows liver anatomy and structure but cannot accurately measure scarring or fat.

FibroScan®:
• Measures fibrosis numerically
• Measures fat content with CAP score
• Stages disease progression
• Tracks changes over time

Both tests may be used together for comprehensive evaluation.

Can FibroScan® replace liver biopsy?

In many cases, yes. FibroScan® is now the preferred first-line test for assessing liver fibrosis.

Advantages over biopsy:
• Non-invasive
• Safer
• Faster
• Repeatable
• Immediate results

Biopsy may still be needed in select cases.

What specific liver conditions can FibroScan® help diagnose and monitor?

FibroScan® is valuable for diagnosing and monitoring:
• NAFLD and NASH
• Chronic hepatitis B and C
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Cirrhosis
• Autoimmune liver disease
• Hemochromatosis
• Liver transplant health

It provides quantitative data that can be tracked over time.

Is FibroScan® painful? Are there any side effects?

No. FibroScan® is completely painless and has no side effects.

You may feel:
• Light vibration or tapping
• Cool gel on the skin

There are no restrictions after the exam.

Can FibroScan® be done on patients with obesity?

Yes. FibroScan® uses an XL probe designed for patients with higher BMI.

The XL probe:
• Penetrates deeper tissue
• Provides accurate results
• Is performed the same way as the standard probe

How often should I get a FibroScan®?

Frequency depends on your condition.

Typical schedules:
• Annually for stable disease
• Every 6 months for moderate fibrosis
• Every 3–6 months during active treatment

Because FibroScan® is non-invasive, it can be repeated safely.

Can FibroScan® detect liver cancer?

FibroScan® does not directly detect liver cancer, but it helps identify patients at higher risk.

Patients with cirrhosis should undergo regular cancer screening with imaging and blood tests.

Is FibroScan® safe for everyone?

Yes, FibroScan® is extremely safe for nearly all patients.

Safe for:
• Adults and children
• Patients with pacemakers or implants
• Pregnant patients (when necessary)

Not ideal for patients with ascites or who cannot lie flat.

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Fibroscan Articles and Resources

Happy father plays with his daughter after, freedom to spend his time with family

Why did my doctor refer me for Fibroscan instead of a Liver Biopsy?

Doctors often recommend FibroScan over a traditional liver biopsy because it is a non-invasive, painless, and quick procedure that accurately assesses liver stiffness and fat content. This advanced imaging technology provides reliable results without the discomfort, risks, or recovery time associated with a biopsy, making it a preferred option for evaluating liver health.

Read Article
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FibroScan: A Quick and Comfortable Test to Monitor Liver Health.

FibroScan offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional liver biopsies, providing a quick and painless way to assess liver stiffness and fat accumulation—key indicators of chronic liver disease. This innovative test is especially beneficial for individuals with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, hepatitis, or chronic alcohol use.

Read Article

Do you need to schedule a Fibroscan?

American Health Imaging offers same-day and next-day appointment options to make getting an imaging scan convenient. Get a referral from your doctor, find the American Health Imaging center closest to you, and then call to schedule an imaging appointment.