Ultrasound for Fatty Liver Disease

(DeepUSFF Trial)

This trial aims to improve how doctors measure liver fat in individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), often linked to being overweight. Researchers will compare a new ultrasound method, DeepUSFF, to MRI scans to determine which is more effective at measuring liver fat. Suitable candidates for this trial include those advised by a doctor that they might have MASLD and require further imaging tests, have a BMI of 25 or higher, or plan to donate part of their liver and need pre-surgery scans. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance diagnostic methods for liver health.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research shows that the DeepUSFF treatment is easy for people to handle. Previous studies have found that ultrasound methods like DeepUSFF are safe. Participants in these studies did not report any major side effects or problems. The procedure uses ultrasound to check liver fat, which is non-invasive and similar to a regular ultrasound. This makes it generally safe and painless. DeepUSFF has been tested on patients with possible liver issues, and no major safety concerns have emerged.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the trial for the Quantitative Ultrasound Fat Fraction Assessment because it offers a new, non-invasive way to measure liver fat that could be simpler and more accessible than current methods. Traditional options like liver biopsy are invasive and MRI can be expensive and less available. This ultrasound method uses a specialized technique, DeepUSFF, to precisely quantify liver fat in just 10-15 minutes, potentially making it easier for more patients to be evaluated for fatty liver disease without discomfort or lengthy procedures. The hope is to provide a quicker, safer, and more cost-effective diagnostic tool for managing this condition.

Studies have shown that DeepUSFF, a special type of ultrasound, can accurately measure liver fat. It closely matches MRI-PDFF, the current best method for assessing liver fat. This trial will have all participants undergo both DeepUSFF and MRI-PDFF to directly compare these liver fat quantification methods. Research indicates that DeepUSFF diagnoses fatty liver disease more effectively than some other ultrasound methods. Therefore, DeepUSFF might be a useful tool for detecting liver fat issues without needing an MRI.¹³⁴⁶⁷