The first Fibroscan machine of Pakistan was inaugurated by Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan at the National Institute of Liver and Gastro-Intestinal Diseases, Dow University of Health Science (DUHS), Ojha campus on Sunday.
This is the first clinically validated device using Transient Elastography, an announcement said.This unique, accurate and efficient device brings extra clinical confidence and supports patient management. Fibroscan is used for the diagnosis of 1.5 million men, women and children every year. More than 250 research papers have been published so far in this regard.
From screening to follow up, Fibroscan has a wide range of use, including assessment of normal liver, hepatitis B and C, HIV, alcoholic steatohepatitis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, post-liver transplantation and cirrhotic complications. The examination is fast and delivers immediate results.
On the occasion, the Governor mentioned that liver diseases are very common in the province and this machine would obviate the need of liver biopsy in patients suffering from HBV and HCV, and save the cost of liver biopsy without the risks involved.
This is a great opportunity for the country to progress in liver-related research and would not only serve the people of the country, but also promote medical tourism to get liver fibrosis assessment from Middle Eastern and other neighbouring countries.
DUHS Vice-Chancellor Prof Masood Hameed Khan dedicated Pakistan’s first Fibroscan as a gift to the nation on the occasion of the 63rd Independence Day. app