Ultrasound Guided Thyroid Biopsy- About the Exam
Ultrasound guided thyroid biopsy is used to extract a small tissue sample from the thyroid gland for examination. Abnormalities on the thyroid gland can be detected by medical imaging, however, it’s not always possible to tell if an abnormality is benign (non-cancerous) or cancerous. An ultrasound-guided thyroid biopsy allows radiologists to remove a small tissue sample from the suspicious area on the thyroid gland.
What you can expect during a regular ultrasound guided thyroid biopsy:
- The neck will be cleansed with an antiseptic to avoid infection at the site of the biopsy.
- An ultrasound transducer with a small amount of sterile water soluble gel will be placed over the thyroid.
- The radiologist will then insert the needle through the skin under direct imaging guidance from the ultrasound, advance it to the site and remove a tissue sample.
- The needle will then be removed and a bandage will placed over the needle’s entry point if needed. No sutures are needed.
- An ultrasound guided thyroid biopsy is usually completed within 30 minutes.
Learn how to prepare for ultrasound guided thyroid biopsy.
Learn the benefits and risks of ultrasound guided thyroid biopsy.
Watch the Ultrasound - What to Expect Video.
