Transabdominal Hepatic Elastography Ultrasound for Non-Invasive Liver Fibrosis Index Assessment and Gastrointestinal Risk Stratification
This non-invasive ultrasound-based exam targets the right upper abdominal hepatic parenchyma to measure liver tissue stiffness, which is used to calculate a quantitative fibrosis index without radiation, contrast agents, or invasive biopsy requirements. It is clinically applied to stage liver fibrosis in patients with chronic viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and alcohol-related liver disease, as well as to assess risk of cirrhosis-related gastrointestinal complications including portal hypertension, esophageal variceal bleeding, and hepatic encephalopathy. The 30-minute exam is performed with the patient lying supine, with the ultrasound probe positioned over the right intercostal spaces of the upper abdomen to capture consistent, reproducible hepatic tissue measurements.
This non-invasive transabdominal ultrasound exam measures hepatic tissue stiffness to generate a quantitative liver fibrosis index for staging liver damage and evaluating associated gastrointestinal disease risk.
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
- 77606-0
- SNOMED
- 439960005
- Result turnaround
- 24h
- 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