Transabdominal Liver Elastography Ultrasound for Hepatic Tissue Stiffness and Fibrosis Staging
This non-invasive ultrasound-based elastography exam quantifies the elasticity of liver tissue to detect and stage hepatic fibrosis without exposure to ionizing radiation or intravenous contrast agents. It is clinically used to evaluate liver damage caused by chronic gastrointestinal conditions including hepatitis B and C, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and alcohol-related liver disease, as well as to monitor response to treatments for chronic gastrointestinal and liver comorbidities. The 30-minute transabdominal procedure carries no claustrophobia risk and requires only 8 to 12 hours of fasting prior to imaging.
This radiation-free, non-invasive ultrasound exam measures liver tissue stiffness to detect and stage fibrosis caused by chronic gastrointestinal and hepatic conditions.
Key facts at a glance
- Modality
- us
- Body part
- abdomen · hepatic
- Ionizing radiation
- false
- Radiation dose
- 0
- Duration (min)
- 30
- Preparation
- fasting-6h
- Pregnancy safe
- true
- Pediatric safe
- true
- Breastfeeding safe
- true
- Claustrophobia risk
- none
- Metal implant safe
- safe
- Sedation
- none
- LOINC
- 77606-1
- SNOMED
- 440588003
- Result turnaround
- 24-48h
- Availability
- routine
- Setting
- outpatient
- Cost tier
- moderate
Understanding Ultrasound of liver
Ultrasound Imaging provides detailed visualization of liver. This non-invasive technique uses safe technology to capture real-time images.
Clinical Indications
This diagnostic examination detects abnormalities, guides treatment decisions, and monitors known conditions.
What to Expect
The procedure typically takes 30 minutes. The examination is painless and non-invasive.
How to read the report
- Results reviewed by board-certified radiologist.
- Report transmitted to referring physician.
What Is This Procedure?
This ultrasound evaluates hepatic, specifically liver. No radiation exposure.
What Does It Show?
Detailed images of liver. Part of the gastrointestinal system.
Common Uses
This exam is commonly used to detect abnormalities, guide treatments, and monitor known conditions.
What to Expect
The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes.
Severe pain at procedure site
urgentWorsening severe pain with fever or other symptoms. Go to urgent care or ER.
Mild symptoms after procedure
promptMild discomfort or symptoms that don't improve. Contact your doctor.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy