Liver elastography is changing how doctors check liver health. This noninvasive scan checks how stiff the liver is. Liver stiffness tells us if there is scarring, also called fibrosis. At Gastrodoxs.com, we want to help you understand this test. In this guide, we’ll explain how it works, why Houston-area patients trust it, and share advice from Dr. Bharat Pothuri.
Your liver helps your body in many ways:
If the liver is damaged, you might feel tired or bloated. You may also feel generally unwell. Liver elastography helps detect problems early.
Fibrosis is the buildup of scar tissue in the liver. This happens when the liver keeps trying to heal itself. Too much scarring can turn into cirrhosis.
Fibrosis stages go from F0 (no damage) to F4 (severe damage).
Dr. Pothuri says: “Liver scarring often doesn’t cause symptoms. Elastography helps us find it before it worsens.”
This test checks how firm or soft your liver is. A healthy liver is soft. A stiff liver may have fibrosis.
There are three types:
Dr. Pothuri explains:
“Each method has pros and cons. We choose based on your needs and what’s available.”
The result is given in kilopascals (kPa).
These numbers help your doctor spot liver problems:
Your lab report may vary slightly. Ask your doctor to explain your result.
Dr. Pothuri adds:
“These values give us a target to compare future tests and plan care.”
Stage 3 means there is a large amount of liver scarring. It’s close to cirrhosis.
You can slow this stage with lifestyle changes and treatment.
Most tests last 10 to 15 minutes. Here’s the breakdown:
You can return to normal activities right after.
No. FibroScan only measures stiffness. It does not show tumors.
Dr. Pothuri says:
“If stiffness is high, we may recommend imaging like MRI or ultrasound.”
| Feature | FibroScan | Shear Wave (SWE) | MR Elastography |
| Time | 10–15 minutes | 15–20 minutes | 30–45 minutes |
| Cost | Low | Medium | High |
| Comfort | Very comfortable | Comfortable | Needs MRI machine |
| Depth | 2–7 cm | 1–8 cm | Whole liver |
| Accuracy | Good | Very good | Excellent |
| Local Access | Widely available | In select centers | Major hospitals |
Tip: Try booking in the morning when your liver is more relaxed.
This guide from Gastrodoxs.com is here to help you understand liver elastography. If you’re in Houston, contact your doctor or our clinic. Early care matters. Stay informed and share this with someone who might benefit.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
A scan that checks liver stiffness without needing a biopsy.
Don’t eat for 2–3 hours. Wear something comfortable.
No. They depend on the lab and machine used.
It means serious liver scarring that needs monitoring.
Usually 10 to 15 minutes.
No. It does not detect tumors.
At TMC, Memorial Hermann, or a Gastrodoxs partner clinic.
No. It’s a painless test.
Your doctor may suggest once every 6–12 months.
Yes. Healthy food, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol can help.
