Testing a new ultrasound technique to detect advanced liver damage

This trial is testing a newer ultrasound technique called spleen stiffness measurement to better detect advanced liver scarring (fibrosis) in people with metabolic-dysfunction associated fatty liver disease. The technique measures how stiff your spleen has become, which can indicate how advanced your liver disease is. Researchers believe this non-invasive scan could help doctors catch serious liver disease earlier and avoid the need for more invasive procedures like liver biopsies.

Currently, doctors use invasive procedures like liver biopsies to confirm advanced liver disease. This trial exists because researchers have found that the new ultrasound technique may work just as well—or better—at detecting dangerous liver scarring without the risks and discomfort of a biopsy. Early and accurate detection could help prevent progression to cirrhosis or liver cancer.