How is FNA performed?
After cleansing the skin overlying the nodule, a very small needle (smaller than a needle used to draw blood) is passed through the skin into the mass. Most biopsies are done under ultrasound guidance to assure the proper placement of the needle and to decrease the risk of an inadequate specimen being obtained. During the procedure, which takes only a few minutes, the patient may briefly feel discomfort. After the biopsy, the patient will be able to drive, return to work, or perform any other normal activity. The biopsy does not affect medication schedules; nor does medication affect the biopsy results. The tissue is stained and sent to a cytopathologist to be examined. Results usually take 72 hours.
