The patient reclines with a pillow under the shoulders and the neck slightly extended.
An ultrasound of the thyroid is performed to locate the nodule in question and to determine the best approach for biopsy.
The site of the biopsy is anesthetized with a local anesthetic using a tiny needle. Sedation is not required. The anesthetic works almost immediately.
A slightly larger needle is used to obtain the biopsy material. Some patients experience a mild aching sensation. The biopsy takes only a few seconds
The needle can be seen in the nodule. A picture is obtain for the medical record
The procedure is essentially bloodless. Pressure on the site is applied for a few minutes to minimize bruising from the thyroid itself.
The patient holds slight pressure. As you can see from her smile she did very well.