Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy

We perform FNA biopsies on a walk-in basis. You will need a referral from your primary care doctor or other health care provider, but no appointment is necessary. After registering, patients are usually seen within an hour. Please allow at least an hour for your visit, including time for registration, preparation and the FNA procedure.

First, the doctor will ask some questions about the lump – where it is, how and when you first noticed it, and if you've noticed any changes in it. Next, the doctor will feel the lump. If it's not easy to feel, the doctor may use ultrasound to visualize it.

Holding the lump with one hand, the doctor will take a sample of cellular material from it with a thin needle. Ultrasound may be used to help the doctor visualize the lump and the needle within it. To get an accurate diagnosis, two or three samples are usually taken.

It takes about 10 to 30 seconds to obtain each sample. The procedure from start to finish takes about 20 to 30 minutes for lumps that are easily felt. Procedures that require the use of ultrasound may take quite a bit longer.

When performed by an experienced doctor, FNA biopsy should have no significant complications. The most common problems after the procedure are bruising and tenderness in the area for a few days.

Discomfort can be treated with an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or the application of an ice pack for short periods at home.

Patients who have HMO insurance need prior approval from their HMO before their visit. For more information, call the clinic.