Robert Hesketh Hepatology Clinical Research Unit

Through clinical trials and research, the Robert Hesketh Hepatology Clinical Research Unit aims to develop new treatments for liver disease.

The Robert Hesketh Hepatology Clinical Research Unit aims to provide care and develop new treatments to tackle liver disease through clinical trials and research. Liver disease is the fifth most common cause of death in the UK. In contrast to other common conditions, the number of people dying from the disease is increasing.

The Hepatology Clinical Research Unit and the Liver and Anti-Viral Unit function as one integrated unit at St Mary’s Hospital. The Hepatology Clinical Research Unit is a state-of-the-art self-contained unit with four bed bays, consulting rooms and treatment rooms, and a large nursing station. Approximately 50 staff – doctors, researchers, nurses, pharmacist, technicians, secretaries and administrators – employed by either Imperial College London or Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, work together as one team. As well as providing the best clinical care and standard treatments, the Unit is able to offer patients the opportunity to take part in clinical research programmes and large clinical drug trials. These focus on the four main causes of liver disease – alcohol, fatty liver disease, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C – as well as liver cell and bile duct cancers.