Fine Needle Aspiration of the Thyroid
A fine needle aspiration of the thyroid gland is a procedure to remove thyroid cells for examination. The thyroid is located in front of the trachea (windpipe) at the top of the neck.Fine needle aspiration of the thyroid is performed by the doctor in the office using ultrasound guidance. Using ultrasound to guide the needle ensures that the sample is taken from the area in question and increases the chances for an adequate sample for interpretation by a pathologist.
How the Test is Performed
This test may be done in the health care provider's office or in a hospital. Usually anesthesia (numbing medicine) is not needed because the needle is very thin.You will lie on your back with a pillow under your shoulders and your neck extended. After the biopsy site is cleaned, the thin needle is inserted into the thyroid, and a sample of thyroid cells and fluid are removed. The needle is then taken out. This process may be repeated multiple times to ensure adequate sample collection. Pressure will be applied to the biopsy site to stop any bleeding, and the site will be covered with a bandage.