Eligible patients in Sandwell and West Birmingham are now able to refer themselves for a scan checking the health of their liver.
A Fibroscan is a type of ultrasound that measures the amount of inflammation in the liver. It can detect scarring, otherwise known as fibrosis or cirrhosis, which can occur as a result of heavy drinking.
The scans are being offered by Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust’s Alcohol Care Team, who have won numerous awards for their innovative care of patients with alcohol use disorders.
Quick and non-invasive, the scans can lead to faster diagnosis and improved treatment of liver damage and liver cancer.
The Alcohol Care Team has a dedicated Fibroscan nurse, who has been employed by the Trust since 2023. Since then, 1200 people have been scanned, with 14 per cent found to have liver cirrhosis and 16 per cent having signs of fibrosis.
Initially, only patients who came into hospital with symptoms of liver damage were referred to the Gastroenterology Department for a scan.
The Alcohol Care Team has now expanded their Fibroscan service to give residents who regularly drink over recommended limits the option of completing a self-referral for a scan, so that any damage to their liver can be detected as early as possible and a treatment plan can be put in place to prevent further liver disease.
26-year-old Rahul Verma from West Bromwich first came into contact with the Trust’s Alcohol Care Team following a seizure brought on by alcohol withdrawal. A Fibroscan was performed one month later, showing early signs of alcohol-related liver disease.
He said: “The scan only took five minutes, and the nurse explained the results straight after the scan was complete. I was told I had a very fatty liver due to my heavy drinking, and I was informed of changes to make to my lifestyle in order to reverse the damage.
“It’s a good way for people to understand their own body. I’m really glad I got my scan as I wouldn’t have known about the damage to my liver and could have had more serious problems later on.”
Arlene Copland, Alcohol Nurse Consultant, said: “When people drink a lot they may not notice early signs of liver disease, which can include loss of appetite, tiredness, weight loss and nausea, as these can all be masked by alcohol.
“A Fibroscan gives people the chance to find out about the health of their liver and make informed decisions about their drinking so they can prevent further liver damage in the future.”
Results of the Fibroscan are given to the patient straightaway and results are also sent to their GP. If the scan shows any cirrhosis, the patient will be referred to the Trust’s Gastroenterology Department for further treatment.
Men who regularly drink over 50 units per week and women who regularly drink over 35 units per week are eligible for a Fibroscan. If you live in Sandwell or West Birmingham, are worried about your drinking and would like a scan, the Alcohol Care Team can be contacted on 0121 507 5074.