Guidance
Evidence-based recommendations on Virtual Touch Quantification to diagnose and monitor liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B and C.
In January 2020, we updated this guidance to reflect new pooled estimates for the sensitivity and specificity of VTq for hepatitis C. Details of the modifications are explained in the review decision. New evidence identified during the guidance review is denoted as [2020].
Is this guidance up to date?
The VTq software on ACUSON S2000 and S3000 assessed in this guidance is still available in the UK. The company has added VTq to the ACUSON Juniper system for liver indications.
A development by the company is point shear wave elastography (pSWE) on the ACUSON Sequoia system. pSWE has an identical function to VTq on the ACUSON S2000 and S3000 ultrasound systems. The company notes that the ACUSON Redwood, which supports liver assessment using pSWE, will be released shortly.
Next review: This guidance will be reviewed if there is new evidence that is likely to change the recommendations.
Guidance development process
How we develop NICE medical technologies guidance
NICE medical technologies guidance addresses specific technologies notified to NICE by sponsors. The ‘case for adoption’ is based on the claimed advantages of introducing the specific technology compared with current management of the condition. This case is reviewed against the evidence submitted and expert advice. If the case for adopting the technology is supported, then the technology has been found to offer advantages to patients and the NHS. The specific recommendations on individual technologies are not intended to limit use of other relevant technologies which may offer similar advantages.