Hepatology

doctor talking to a patient about liver disease

The Clinical Research Institute of Ohio (CRIOH) in Westlake, OH, specializes in hepatology research and diagnostic services that focus on liver health and disease prevention. Our hepatology program supports patients with fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and other metabolic liver conditions through early detection, advanced imaging, and access to clinical trials exploring new treatment options.

Free Liver Scan (FibroScan) in Westlake, Ohio

Approximately one in three Americans is affected by Metabolically Dysfunctional-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), also known as fatty liver disease, or Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH). The disease is silent in its early stages, and many individuals are unaware they have these conditions until the disease progresses.

CRIOH offers FibroScan, or a free liver scan, a non-invasive and painless diagnostic tool used to evaluate liver health. This quick ultrasound-based test measures liver stiffness and fat content to detect and stage fatty liver disease without the need for a liver biopsy (taking tissue through a needle).

A FibroScan is a quick, non-invasive liver test similar to an ultrasound. It uses vibration-controlled transient elastography technology to measure liver stiffness and assess fatty buildup or fibrosis.

FibroScan requires no sedation and takes only a few minutes, allowing providers to deliver results during your visit. This test helps identify early signs of liver damage so patients can take preventive action and, if eligible, participate in research studies focused on liver disease management and treatment.

Patients should fast for at least three hours before their appointment. The test is completely painless and performed in a comfortable setting by trained staff.

The procedure typically takes about 10-30 minutes and provides instant results.

Individuals with the following risk factors may benefit from a FibroScan screening:

  • Obesity
  • Age over 50
  • High cholesterol or triglycerides
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Hispanic ethnicity
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • BMI > 30 kg/m2

Because fatty liver disease often develops without symptoms, early screening is essential for timely intervention.

To ensure accurate results, do not eat or drink anything other than water for at least three hours before your appointment. The scan takes only a few minutes, and you will receive your results instantly. Your provider will review your results and discuss next steps during your visit.

Some of the common terms that you may want to familiarize yourself with are listed below:

  • CAP Score: Measures the amount of fat within liver cells.
  • Liver Fibrosis: Scarring caused by ongoing liver injury.
  • MASLD: Fat accumulation in the liver with one or more metabolic risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, or diabetes.
  • MASH: Inflammation and damage resulting from MASLD.
  • ALT/AST Levels: Liver enzymes that rise with liver injury.
  • Cirrhosis: Advanced scarring of the liver from chronic disease.
  • Liver Stiffness: Indicates the degree of fibrosis or scarring.
  • Steatosis: The presence of fat within the liver.

Hepatology and Liver Disease Care in Westlake, OH

Protect your liver health with early detection and research-based care. Schedule your free liver scan at the Clinical Research Institute of Ohio in Westlake, OH, today by calling (440) 363-4000 or schedule an appointment online to learn more about ongoing liver disease studies and preventive options.