What is Elastography?
Elastography is a specialized, non-invasive ultrasound examination used to evaluate the elasticity, or stiffness, of liver tissue. Using advanced imaging technology, elastography quantifies how sound waves propagate through the liver to assess tissue density and structural changes.Â
Because healthy liver tissue is typically soft and flexible, while diseased or scarred tissue becomes stiff, elastography provides valuable insight into liver health without the need for invasive procedures. This imaging study is commonly used to detect and monitor liver fibrosis, scarring, and chronic liver disease.
Why is Elastography Performed?
Elastography is performed to help providers evaluate liver conditions and determine the presence or severity of fibrosis (liver scarring). Chronic liver diseases can gradually damage liver tissue, leading to stiffness that may progress to cirrhosis if left untreated.
This test is often recommended for patients with:
- Chronic hepatitis B or C
- Fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
- Alcohol-related liver disease
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Suspected liver fibrosis or cirrhosis
- Metabolic liver disorders
By measuring liver stiffness, elastography helps guide diagnosis, treatment decisions, and long-term disease monitoring.
How Does Elastography Work?
Elastography is performed similarly to a traditional abdominal ultrasound. During the exam, a technologist places a small handheld probe (transducer) on the skin over the liver area.
The device emits painless sound waves that travel through the liver tissue. Advanced software analyzes how quickly these waves move. Faster wave movement indicates stiffer tissue, while slower movement suggests healthier, more elastic liver tissue.
The results are presented as numerical measurements and imaging maps that clinicians use to assess liver condition and, if fibrosis is present, stage fibrosis.
How Should I Prepare for Elastography?
Preparation for elastography is simple. Patients are typically asked to fast for several hours prior to the exam to reduce gastrointestinal interference and improve imaging accuracy.
Your care team will provide specific instructions, which may include:
- Avoiding food for 3–6 hours before the test
- Continuing most medications unless instructed otherwise
- Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
Following preparation guidelines helps ensure the most accurate results.
What Can I Expect During the Exam?
Elastography is quick, painless, and performed in the office or imaging suite. The procedure usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
During the exam:
- You will lie comfortably on your back
- Gel will be applied to the abdomen
- The ultrasound probe will be moved over the liver area
- You may be asked to hold your breath briefly for clearer images
No sedation is required, and patients may resume normal activities immediately after the test.
What are the Benefits of Elastography?
Elastography offers several advantages in evaluating liver health. Because it is non-invasive, it reduces the need for liver biopsy in many cases.
Key benefits include:
- Painless, non-surgical evaluation
- No sedation or downtime
- Early detection of liver fibrosis
- Ongoing monitoring of liver diseaseQuick, in-office testing
- Immediate or rapid results
This technology allows providers to diagnose liver conditions earlier and manage them more effectively.
Who is a Candidate for Elastography?
Elastography may be recommended for patients with known or suspected liver disease, abnormal liver function tests, or risk factors for liver fibrosis.
You may be a candidate if you have:
- Fatty liver disease
- Viral hepatitis
- History of heavy alcohol use
- Obesity or metabolic syndrome
- Type 2 diabetes
- Family history of liver disease
Your provider will determine whether elastography is appropriate based on your medical history and prior test results.
Digestive Healthcare Center offers advanced elastography imaging to evaluate liver health quickly and comfortably. Our experienced gastroenterology team uses this technology to detect liver disease, assess fibrosis progression, and guide personalized treatment plans.
With convenient scheduling and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, we are committed to providing accurate answers and proactive liver care.
To schedule an elastography exam or learn more, contact our office today.
Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Care in Somerset County
At DHC, located in Hillsborough, Somerville, and Warren, NJ, our team of digestive health specialists puts each patient first. We diagnose and treat chronic and acute gastrointestinal conditions so our patients can live healthier and more comfortable lives. We will work with you to determine the cause of your symptoms and determine the best course of action for finding relief. To learn more about what we do or to schedule your appointment, please contact us today.