Ultrasound Thyroid

An ultrasound of the thyroid produces pictures of the thyroid gland and the adjacent structures in the neck. A thyroid ultrasound may be ordered if a thyroid function test is abnormal and used to check an underactive or overactive gland.
An ultrasound of the thyroid is used to:

• Determine if a lump is from the thyroid or an adjacent structure
• Analyse the appearance of thyroid nodules
• Locate for additional nodules in patients with one or more nodules felt on physical exam
• See if a thyroid nodule has substantially grown over time
• Guide procedures such as needle biopsies,
• Look for recurrence of thyroid tissue post ablation/removal due to cancer etc

You will need to remove any necklaces or any other accessories that can block your throat. Please do not wear a skivvie or other high necked shirt.

You will be asked to lie on your back on the ultrasound examination bed. A pillow or a pad will be placed under the back of your neck to help tilt you head back and expose your throat area where your thyroid is located.

The sonographer will apply gel onto your throat and a transducer will move back and forth over the area where your thyroid is located. This will not cause you any pain or discomfort. Images will be taken of your thyroid during this procedure so it is important to remain still throughout.

The specialised doctor will carefully analyse your images and make a report to your referring doctor. If the referring doctor is in the hospital they will be able to access the results on the computer. If your doctor is not in the hospital then the clerks will be able to burn the results on a disc.