Elastography is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that helps determine the stiffness of organs and other structures in your body. It is most commonly used to assess your liver. Elastography directs painless low-frequency vibrations into the liver.
There are two types of liver elastography tests:
Ultrasound elastography, also known as Fibroscan, is the brand name of the ultrasound device. The test uses sound waves to measure the stiffness of liver tissue. Stiffness is a sign of fibrosis.
MRE (magnetic resonance elastography), a test that combines ultrasound technology with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI is a procedure that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create images of organs and structures inside the body. In an MRE test, a computer program creates a visual map that shows liver stiffness.
Elastography uses low-frequency vibrations during an ultrasound or MRI to measure the stiffness (or elasticity) of organs inside the body. It is particularly useful for detecting the presence and severity of the liver disease.
Liver elastography involves the use of a surface ultrasound probe that delivers a low frequency pulse or shear wave to a small volume of liver tissue under the rib cage. The transmission of the sound wave is completely painless.