UDFF Scan Preparation — What to Expect at Epoch Medical Imaging
Preparing for a UDFF liver fat scan at Epoch Medical Imaging, St Ives Shopping Village. Fasting, duration and what to expect on the day. North Shore specialist liver imaging.
Do I Need to Fast Before My UDFF Scan?
Yes — fasting before your UDFF scan is important for accurate expert diagnostic results, and it is one of the few key preparation steps required.
Why fasting matters:
– Eating a meal increases blood flow through the portal vein into the liver, which temporarily affects the acoustic properties of liver tissue.
– This temporary change can result in artificially higher fat fraction readings if the scan is performed too soon after eating.
– Fasting for the recommended period ensures your UDFF result accurately reflects your true liver fat content.
Preparation guidelines:
– Fast for a minimum of 2 hours before your appointment — ideally 4 hours for the most reliable expert diagnostic results.
– Water is always permitted and encouraged throughout the fasting period — staying hydrated is fine.
– Take your regular morning medications as normal.
– If you have diabetes and are concerned about fasting, please speak with your GP or our team before your appointment and we will provide personalised guidance.
Our team at Epoch Medical Imaging in St Ives Shopping Village will confirm fasting requirements and any other preparation when you book on (02) 9129 6999.
How Long Does a UDFF Scan Take?
A UDFF scan scan is a quick and efficient appointment — most patients are pleasantly surprised by how straightforward it is.
What to expect on the day:
– The UDFF scan itself takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
– If UDFF is being performed alongside a standard liver ultrasound or liver elastography, allow approximately 30 to 45 minutes for the full combined appointment.
– You will lie comfortably on your back with your right arm raised.
– The sonographer places the ultrasound probe gently over the right side of your abdomen and takes multiple measurements.
– No injections, no contrast, no preparation fluids to drink.
– No discomfort and no recovery time are required.
After the scan, you can eat immediately and resume all normal activities. To book your UDFF scan at Epoch Medical Imaging in St Ives Shopping Village, call (02) 9129 6999.
Is the UDFF Scan Painful or Uncomfortable?
No — a UDFF scan scan is completely painless and non-invasive. For most patients, it is one of the most comfortable imaging investigations available.
What the experience is like:
– You lie comfortably on an examination bed.
– A small amount of warm ultrasound gel is applied to your right upper abdomen.
– The sonographer gently moves the probe over your skin — you will feel only light, comfortable pressure.
– There are no injections, no preparation liquids to consume, and no radiation of any kind.
– The machine operates silently during the scan.
UDFF uses the same safe ultrasound sound waves as a standard abdominal scan — the difference is the sophisticated software that analyses the returning signal to calculate your liver fat fraction. Our sonographers at Epoch Medical Imaging in St Ives Shopping Village are experienced and will ensure your comfort and privacy throughout the appointment.
When Will I Receive My UDFF Results?
Your UDFF scan expert diagnostic results are reviewed by our specialist radiologist alongside any other investigations performed during your appointment.
What happens after your scan:
– Your numerical fat fraction result, image quality assessment, and clinical interpretation are compiled into a comprehensive written report by our specialist radiologist.
– This report is sent directly to your referring GP or gastroenterologist within 24 to 48 hours of your appointment.
– Your doctor will contact you to discuss the result and advise on any recommended dietary, lifestyle, or treatment changes.
– If your scan is urgent, please inform our team when booking so we can prioritise your report accordingly.
UDFF expert diagnostic results are most meaningful when interpreted alongside your liver blood tests, clinical history, and any previous assessments. Your GP or gastroenterologist will discuss your result in this full context, providing you with a clear picture of your liver health and the most appropriate next steps.
Bulk Billing
Available Here
All Referrals Accepted
We Handle Your
Insurance Claims
We Accept All Workers Compensation Cases
Get in Touch
Have a question or ready to book? Our friendly team is here to help with appointments, referrals and any imaging enquiries you may have.
Working Hours
Monday - Wednesday, Friday 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thursday - 08:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Saturday - 08:30 AM - 1:00 PM