What is the thyroid biopsy procedure and how is it done?

Mass formations in the thyroid gland, which we call nodules, are a common problem. These nodules are evaluated according to their size and internal structure, and cases thought to be malignant are referred to biopsy. In general, the vast majority of thyroid nodules are benign. If there are punctate foci of calcification (microcalcification) in the nodule, the nodule is black in color (hypoechoic solid) on ultrasound, the edges of the nodule are irregular or faintly circumscribed, the nodule shows excessive blood on

Doppler ultrasound, and if there are features such as a hard nodule in elastography, the nodule can be malignant (malignant nodule) and the probability of getting out increases. Thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy (Thyroid FNAB = FIAB) is the most ideal method for differentiating benign and malignant nodules.

Fasting and special preparation are not required for the thyroid biopsy procedure. Since the sample is taken with a very fine needle, there is no need to discontinue blood thinners such as aspirin. The procedure is done under ultrasound guidance. After cleaning the neck skin in a slightly reclining position, superficial spray anesthesia is usually sufficient for the skin. It is not a more painful procedure than a blood draw. Under the guidance of ultrasound, a very thin needle is entered into the central part of the nodule, and the material required for cytology is aspirated with back-and-forth motion and the pressure in the injector. The obtained materials are spread on the slide and evaluated by the cytopathologist during the procedure, and if sufficient material is obtained, the process is terminated; In centers where onside pathology specialists are not available, the material is prepared appropriately and sent to the pathology laboratory. The skin is closed with a small injection tape. The patient is kept under observation for 15-20 minutes and then sent home without any restrictions in his daily life.