The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the middle of the neck, located below the larynx (voice box) and above the clavicles (collarbones). A normal thyroid gland cannot be seen or felt, but produces hormones essential for regulating metabolism. A thyroid nodule is a round or oval-shaped lump (s) within the thyroid. Thyroid nodule(s) can cause a visible or palpable enlargement of the thyroid gland, called a ‘goitre’ .
Thyroid nodules are round or oval lumps that develop on the thyroid gland.
What is Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology?
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) of thyroid nodules is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate and obtain tissue samples from suspicious or abnormal growths in the thyroid gland. Thyroid nodules are common, and while most are benign, some may be cancerous or have the potential to become thyroid cancer.
The purpose of FNAC is to collect a small tissue sample from the thyroid nodule for pathological analysis. This helps determine the nature of the nodule, whether it is benign, malignant, or indeterminate. It is a minimally invasive technique that provides valuable information to guide further management and treatment decisions.
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology can determine if a thyroid nodule is cancerous or benign.
What are the benefits?
Traditional biopsies may need help in accurately sampling small or hard-to-reach nodules. FNAC overcomes these challenges by utilising real-time ultrasound guidance, ensuring the following benefits:
Precise: Allows accurate targeting and sampling of nodules.
Minimally invasive: Safe and accurate diagnosis and treatment without the need for open surgery.
Patient comfort and safety:Patients experience minimal discomfort, and the risk of complications is low, making it a safe and patient-friendly option for thyroid nodule evaluation.
Swift results and treatment planning: One of the key advantages is the quick turnaround time for results. Rapid pathology analysis enables the medical team to formulate an accurate diagnosis promptly and discuss potential treatment options with the patient.
What is the process?
A FNAC procedure typically involves the following steps:
Patient preparation: Before the procedure, the patient may be asked to avoid blood-thinning medications, and our surgeon will inquire about any known allergies or medical conditions.
Ultrasound imaging: An ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland will be done to allow the surgeon to visualise the thyroid nodule's size, location, and characteristics.
Needle placement: With ultrasound imaging guidance, a thin and fine needle is precisely inserted through the skin into the thyroid nodule.
Tissue sample collection: The needle is used to aspirate or withdraw a small amount of tissue from the thyroid nodule. Multiple samples may be taken from different areas of the nodule to increase the accuracy of the biopsy.
Pathological analysis: The collected tissue samples are then sent to a pathology laboratory, where a pathologist examines them under a microscope. The analysis provides information on the cellular composition of the nodule, helping to determine whether it is benign, malignant, or indeterminate.
Results and further action: Results are discussed with the patient once the pathology report is available. Depending on the findings, further monitoring, medical management, or surgical intervention may be recommended.
Ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration of thyroid nodules is typically an outpatient procedure
FNAC is a safe and well-tolerated procedure with minimal risks. It is particularly useful for evaluating thyroid nodules that are not easily accessible through other means. The precision of ultrasound guidance enhances the accuracy of the biopsy, allowing for a more informed and timely diagnosis of thyroid conditions.
Enquire now
Thyroid Screening at our clinic includes the following, done on the same day:
Clinical Assessment
Thyroid examination inclusive of neck and thyroid ultrasound
Comprehensive Thyroid laboratory tests
Fine needle biopsy if suspicious thyroid nodules or neck masses are found or ultrasound-guided aspiration of any large benign cyst
At ACE Specialist Surgery and Endoscopy, we prioritise early detection, accurate diagnosis, and personalised treatment for thyroid conditions. Our multidisciplinary approach and compassionate care ensures our patients receive optimal care for their thyroid health. We are committed to improving the quality of life for individuals with thyroid disorders through our comprehensive thyroid screening and treatment services.
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Dr Reyaz Singaporewalla Senior Consultant Endocrine and General Surgeon
