Hepatology · UK
FibroScan (liver elastography) - painless, five-minute measurement of liver stiffness and fat.
A vibration-controlled transient elastography scan measures liver stiffness (a proxy for fibrosis) and CAP (a proxy for steatosis). NICE-endorsed for MASLD/NAFLD staging.
Indicative pricing
What private FibroScan costs in the UK.
Indicative ranges across our partner units.
In short
£250–£500, results in Same day.
| Procedure | Indicative range | Typical duration | Turnaround |
|---|---|---|---|
| FibroScan (liver elastography) | £250–£500 | 10–15 min | Same day |
| Consultant consultation | £200–£400 | 30–45 min | Same visit |
| Pre-procedure bloods | £80–£220 | 5 min blood draw | 24–72 hours |
| Follow-up review | £150–£300 | 20–30 min | Same visit |
Prices vary by hospital, by consultant and by the complexity of your case.
The problem
The right FibroScan, at the right time - with the right consultant.
NHS pathways are excellent but capacity is stretched. Private care shortens the timeline and lets you choose the consultant.
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NHS waits are long
Median waits for elective work vary by region and specialty; private care shortens the timeline.
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The right consultant matters
Outcomes in hepatology track with volume and subspecialisation - not just hospital brand.
When it helps
When FibroScan is the right step.
Situations where FibroScan is a reasonable next step in the UK.
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MASLD/NAFLD staging
For elevated ALT with metabolic syndrome.
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Alcohol-related liver disease
Baseline and surveillance.
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Chronic hepatitis B or C
Fibrosis assessment before and after treatment.
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Elevated LFTs on health screen
To triage before further imaging.
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Type 2 diabetes surveillance
MASLD is common; NICE recommends screening in high-risk groups.
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Family history of cirrhosis
Genetic or metabolic risk.
Procedure options
Options within FibroScan.
Technique and delivery vary by consultant and case.
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M probe (standard)
For most adults; BMI up to ~30.
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XL probe
For higher BMI patients.
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S probe
Paediatric use.
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FibroScan with CAP
Adds steatosis quantification.
Safety and recovery
What to expect afterwards - honestly.
The safety profile is well understood - the honest bits are here.
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No radiation
Ultrasound-based technology.
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No preparation
Fast for 3 hours beforehand.
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Discomfort minimal
A gentle tapping sensation on the right side.
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Not accurate in ascites
Fluid interferes with the reading.
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Confounders
Recent meals, inflammation and cardiac congestion can raise readings.
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Does not replace biopsy
In equivocal cases, biopsy is still the reference.
Reading your notes
Your report in four parts. Read the last one first.
Whichever centre performs the procedure, the report keeps to the same shape.
- 01 Header
Indication and consent
Why the procedure was done, what was consented and any relevant history.
- 02 Findings
What was seen or done
The technical detail - anatomy, samples, devices used, measurements.
- 03 Assessment
Consultant interpretation
What the findings mean in your clinical context.
- 04 Impression
Summary and next step
Read this first - the bottom line and recommended follow-up.
Recognised by major UK insurers
Usually covered by UK private medical insurance when there is a specialist referral and a clear clinical indication.
Frequently asked
Everything we get asked about FibroScan.
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How much does private FibroScan cost in the UK?
We share two or three options with cover checked.
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Is FibroScan covered by UK private medical insurance?
Usually yes with a specialist referral and clear indication. Bupa, AXA, Vitality, Aviva, WPA and Cigna are the mainstream insurers we work with.
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How soon can I be booked?
Most patients are seen within a week; urgent cases the same week where clinically appropriate.
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Where is it performed?
In CQC-registered UK hospitals and clinics across London and the major cities.
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Will the NHS see the results?
The report goes to you and - with your consent - your NHS GP.
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Is there an NHS pathway for this?
Yes, but waits vary by region. Private care is an option when timing, choice of consultant or symptom burden makes waiting unattractive.
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