Neck/Thyroid Scans Service
Neck and thyroid scans involve the use of ultrasound imaging to assess the structures and tissues in the neck, including the thyroid gland. These scans are non-invasive and play a crucial role in diagnosing various conditions related to the neck and thyroid.
Key Features of Neck and Thyroid Ultrasound Scans :
Purpose:
- Evaluate the thyroid gland: To assess the size, shape, and structure of the thyroid, identify nodules, and evaluate for signs of thyroid disease.
- Detect thyroid conditions: To diagnose conditions such as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer.
- Assess cervical lymph nodes: To evaluate lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) in the neck, which may indicate infection, inflammation, or malignancy.
- Guide interventions: To assist in procedures such as fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of thyroid nodules or lymph nodes.
Indications for Neck and Thyroid Scans :
- Thyroid nodules: To evaluate the presence and characteristics of nodules detected on physical examination or other imaging.
- Thyroid dysfunction: In patients with symptoms suggestive of thyroid disorders, such as changes in weight, energy levels, or temperature sensitivity.
- Cervical lymphadenopathy: To assess swollen lymph nodes in the neck for potential malignancy or infection.
- Follow-up of known thyroid conditions: For monitoring thyroid diseases or post-surgical evaluations.
Procedure:
- Patient preparation: The patient typically lies on an examination table with the neck exposed. No special preparation is generally required.
- Ultrasound technique: A conductive gel is applied to the skin over the neck, and a handheld transducer is moved over the area to obtain images of the thyroid gland and surrounding structures.
- Doppler assessment: In some cases, Doppler ultrasound may be used to assess blood flow in the thyroid gland.
Safety:
- Neck and thyroid ultrasound is a non-invasive, safe, and painless procedure that uses sound waves, posing no risk of radiation exposure.