FibroScan™ liver assessment in Rochdale

A FibroScan™ is a quick, non-invasive test used to assess the health of the liver. It uses advanced ultrasound technology called shear wave elastography to measure liver stiffness and estimate the amount of scarring (fibrosis) present.

At Highfield Hospital in Rochdale, patients can access fast appointments for FibroScan™ liver assessment without lengthy waiting times. The test is painless, takes only a few minutes and does not require any needles or sedation.

FibroScan™ can help identify liver conditions at an early stage, often before symptoms develop. It provides valuable information that can help consultants diagnose liver disease, monitor existing conditions and guide treatment decisions.

Our experienced gastroenterology and hepatology specialists support patients from Rochdale, Middleton, Heywood, Oldham, Bolton, Bury and across Greater Manchester.

If you are concerned about your liver health or have been advised to undergo a FibroScan™ assessment, our team can help you access prompt diagnosis and expert guidance.

A FibroScan™ may be recommended for people who have risk factors for liver disease or abnormal liver function test results.

You may benefit from a FibroScan™ if you:

• Have fatty liver disease (NAFLD or MASLD)
• Have type 2 diabetes
• Are overweight or obese
• Drink alcohol regularly
• Have hepatitis B or hepatitis C
• Have elevated liver enzymes
• Have a family history of liver disease
• Need monitoring of a known liver condition

Many liver conditions do not cause symptoms in their early stages. A FibroScan™ can help identify signs of liver damage before significant problems develop.

Common symptoms that may prompt further liver investigation include:

• Persistent tiredness
• Abdominal discomfort
• Unexplained weight loss
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Nausea or loss of appetite

FibroScan™ uses shear wave elastography technology to measure how stiff the liver tissue is.

During the test:

1. You'll lie comfortably on an examination couch
2. A small probe is placed against the skin over your liver
3. Gentle pulses are sent through the liver tissue
4. The technology measures how quickly these waves travel through the liver
5. Results are produced immediately

In general, healthy liver tissue is softer, while scarred liver tissue is stiffer. The measurements help your consultant assess the degree of fibrosis or scarring.

The test is:

• Non-invasive
• Painless
• Radiation-free
• Performed without needles
• Usually completed within 10 to 15 minutes

Patients can return to normal activities immediately after their appointment.

FibroScan™ provides important information about liver health and can help support the diagnosis and monitoring of several conditions, including:

Fatty liver disease

Excess fat stored within the liver can lead to inflammation and long-term damage if left untreated.

Liver fibrosis

Fibrosis occurs when scar tissue forms in response to ongoing liver injury.

Cirrhosis

Advanced scarring of the liver can affect liver function and increase the risk of complications.

Alcohol-related liver disease

Regular excessive alcohol consumption can result in liver inflammation and scarring.

Viral hepatitis

Patients with hepatitis B or hepatitis C may require FibroScan™ assessments to monitor disease progression and treatment outcomes.

FibroScan™ does not replace every liver investigation, but it can reduce the need for more invasive procedures such as liver biopsy in many patients.

Before your appointment, you may be asked not to eat for several hours.

During your visit:

• A specialist clinician will explain the procedure
• The test will be performed in a private clinical setting
• Results may be available immediately
• Your consultant will review the findings and discuss any next steps

Depending on the results, you may be advised about lifestyle changes, further investigations or treatment options.

Many patients appreciate the speed and convenience of FibroScan™ compared with traditional diagnostic procedures.

Highfield Hospital provides convenient access to diagnostic services for patients across Rochdale and Greater Manchester.

When you choose Highfield Hospital, you'll benefit from:

• Fast access to appointments
• Consultant-led care
• Modern diagnostic facilities
• On-site imaging services
• Individualised treatment plans
• Access to further investigations if required
• Ample parking for patients and visitors
• Comfortable outpatient facilities

Our specialist teams work closely together to ensure patients receive seamless care from diagnosis through to treatment and long-term management where required.

If you're concerned about your liver health, a FibroScan™ can provide valuable information quickly and without the need for invasive procedures.

At Highfield Hospital, our experienced consultants can assess your liver health, explain your results clearly and recommend the most appropriate next steps for your care.

Book a private FibroScan™ liver assessment online today or speak to our team to find out more about our liver diagnostic services.