How is a fine needle aspiration performed?
Fine needle aspiration is a fairly simple procedure usually performed in a doctor’s office with no anesthetic. FNA is performed using a small, 20-27 gauge, needle (larger gauge corresponds to a smaller needle). The person performing the exam will first clean the skin above the area to be sampled to prevent infection. Then the needle is inserted into the center of the lesion and small sample of cells is removed. Because the sample taken is very small this procedure will be repeated 4 or more times to ensure an adequate sample is obtained. In some cases ultrasound will be used to accurately guide the needle into the lesion.
