Thyroid Biopsy Ultrasound Department
Department of Radiology, 319-398-6050
WHAT IS IT:
A thyroid biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of thyroid cells is obtained by placing a small, thin needle into an area of abnormality in the thyroid gland and withdrawing thyroid cells for evaluation. A thyroid biopsy takes 45 minutes to complete.
PREPARATION:
- Patient should eat a light breakfast the morning of the procedure.
- Regular medications should be taken unless you are directed otherwise.
- If you are on blood thinning medication, your physician should direct you to HOLD this medication for 7 days prior to the procedure.
- Do not take aspirin for 7 days prior to the procedure unless your physician directs you otherwise.
- Plan to come about 30 minutes before your appointment time.
PROCEDURE:
- You will be escorted to the Ultrasound area where you receive further information about your exam. Please feel free to ask questions.
- You will be asked to change into a patient gown.
- Your vital signs will be checked by the Radiology nurse.
- Once the radiologist has discussed the procedure with you, you will be asked to sign a consent form.
- The area over the biopsy site will be cleaned and covered with a sterile drape. The skin over the biopsy site will be numbed with an anesthetic. A small, thin needle will be inserted into the biopsy area under the ultrasound guidance and thyroid cells will be withdrawn. Often it is necessary to obtain more than one sample.
- Once the biopsy is completed, a band-aid will be placed over the skin at the biopsy site. Often a small ice pack is applied to the biopsy to help minimize swelling.
AFTER YOUR BIOPSY:
- After the biopsy is complete, you will remain in the ultrasound department for 20-30 minutes so that the nurse can observe the biopsy site.
- When you are ready to be dismissed, the radiology nurse will discuss your discharge instructions with you and provide you with a written copy.
- Often you will be able to resume your usual activities the same day as the biopsy, but we encourage you to plan something undemanding and restful for the remainder of the day.
- The results of your biopsy will be sent to your doctor as soon as the pathology report is available, usually 1-2 days.
OUTPATIENT REGISTRATION:
Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Park in the Mercy Medical Center Parking Ramp, located at the corner of 8th Street and 8th Avenue SE. You must register PRIOR to your procedure. Upon entering the hospital, proceed to Ground (G) level and follow the signs to “Registration.” After 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or on the weekends, proceed to Ground (G) level and follow the signs to the “Emergency Department” and register there. After registering, follow the signs to “Radiology (X-Ray)”, also located on Ground (G) level.
Your appointment date and time:
