• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) is a method for biopsy of the thyroid gland. It is usually recommended for thyroid nodules that are large (usually larger than 1 cm), or growing.
• You should not take aspirin or blood thinners for 5 days prior to FNA.
• You should eat and take your other medications as usual on the morning of your appointment.
• You will be given a topical anesthetic cream to the neck to minimize pain. This will not affect your ability to drive after your appointment.
• For the FNA, your doctor will use a needle similar in the size to the needles used for routine blood draws.
• Your doctor will use an ultrasound to help guide the position of the needle for an accurate biopsy.
• Typically 3-4 biopsies are done per nodule to ensure adequate material is obtained.
• After the FNA, your neck may feel a little sore. You may take Tylenol as needed. Notify our office if you experience significant swelling or pain.
• Results are usually available in 7-10 days. You will be asked to schedule an appointment to discuss the results with your doctor.