Ultrasound-guided biopsy

What is an ultrasound-guided FNA biopsy?

It is a simple, quick and effective procedure to take a sample of tissue from the neck or thyroid.

What are the benefits?

Previous tests may have shown a possible abnormality in the neck. The purpose of the biopsy is to help with the diagnosis. Ultrasound helps to maximise accuracy and quality of the sample taken.

What are the risks and complications?

With any procedure, there is always a risk. It has been demonstrated that ultrasound-guided FNA biopsies are safe. This procedure has been shown to have less risk of post-operation infection than an open procedure.

Occasional side effects of this procedure include:

• Risk of infection—if this occurs, it will usually require antibiotics and you should seek an immediate medical review by your GP, or attend an Emergency Department.
• Failure to sample sufficient tissue
• Bruising around the biopsy site

Please bear in mind that your doctor has recommended you for this procedure because they believe that the potential benefits of the biopsy outweigh any potential complications. If you have any questions or concerns please speak with your doctor.

Tell us if you

• Are taking any medication like anticoagulants (blood thinners), antiplatelets, immunosuppressants or antiretrovirals
• Are feeling unwell or do not want the procedure or no longer have symptoms

Are there any alternatives?

You may be reviewed by your specialist who will discuss other options.

Preparation

No specific preparation is required for this procedure. You may eat and drink normally.

On the day

Please report to the Ultrasound Reception Desk, Imaging Department, 1st Floor, Lift Bank D. Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow time for you to be booked in and relevant written consent forms to be completed. If you arrive late it may result in your appointment being rebooked for a later date.  

Who performs the procedure?

The radiologist performing your scan will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions that you have. When they are sure that you understand the procedure you will be asked to sign a consent form. The radiologist will perform a diagnostic ultrasound scan to confirm the location and extent of the problem as well as to check there are no other issues in the surrounding area.

What happens during the procedure?

The radiologist will perform the procedure in the imaging department using ultrasound guidance to ensure the biopsy needle is accurately placed.

The radiologist will position you accordingly. Your skin will be cleaned and ultrasound will then be used to guide a needle into the correct position in the neck. The biopsy needle collects small pieces of tissue which are sent to the laboratory to be examined under a microscope.

What to expect afterwards

The procedure is usually well tolerated. You should be able to drive home but may prefer someone to drive you. You can eat and drink as normal. As the local anaesthetic wears off you may feel some discomfort. This can be managed with your usual painkillers, and paracetamol is recommended. After the procedure, pressure will be applied to the site to help prevent bleeding and subsequent bruising. If the area should bleed again, pressure and a cold compress should help.

When will I get the results?

Results will go to your referring doctor.

Contact information

Imaging Department

1st Floor, Lift Bank D
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital
369 Fulham Road
London
SW10 9NH

If you need to change your appointment date or time, or if you require an interpreter for your examination, please contact the booking team on 020 3315 2785/3 (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm).