Thyroid Disorders

What Is Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)?

This method collects small tissue samples for the diagnosis of a “growth" or "lump." A very fine needle is inserted into the mass, and tissue or fluid is withdrawn. This is then smeared onto glass slides, stained and examined  microscopically in our laboratory.

How does one prepare for FNA?

No particular preparation is needed beforehand. One may eat breakfast or lunch, and there are no restrictions afterward. One can safely return to work after the procedure.

Does FNA hurt?

The procedure is very similar to having blood drawn from the arm. The prick from the needle is felt, and, while it is moved back and forth to dislodge tissue fragments, some pressure may be experienced as well. Taking the sample lasts but a few seconds, and the needle is withdrawn. The procedure is repeated to sample other parts of the mass and to obtain representative material for diagnosis.

What are the complications?

There are very few complications. A small bruise may occur at the puncture site. Some patients experience light-headedness (because of their anxiety), and very few actually faint. The procedure is done with the patient sitting or lying down with adequate support, so no one will fall.

What is the success rate?

A definitive diagnosis is rendered in 80% of the cases. In approximately 5% of cases, the material obtained is not adequate for definitive microscopic evaluation, usually because of the small size of the mass or its inherent nature. In the balance 15%, precise diagnosis cannot be rendered, but enough information is obtained to further guide therapy.

How soon are the results known?

A preliminary result may be available the same day and will be communicated by phone to the referring physician. The final report is usually ready for mailing and/or faxing within 24 hours.

What Is the difference between FNA and Surgical Biopsy?

FNA does not cause scarring afterward, no anesthesia is necessary, the entire procedure takes from 15 to 30 minutes, it is done as an outpatient procedure, and preliminary results are available the same day.
Surgical Biopsy is invasive and leaves a permanent scar, it is done under local or total anesthesia, the entire procedure takes at least one hour, results are available 1-2 days later, and it is approximately four times more expensive than the FNA.

Who performs the FNA?

Dr. Venkataraman Sukumar, MD, is a Hematopathology Specialist in Dover, DE and has over 47 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from University of Calcutta / R.G. Kar Medical College medical school in 1974.
Dr. Ricardo Mendoza Jr, MD is an Anatomic Pathology Specialist in Dover, DE.

Where is the FNA performed?

In our office - click here for the address, working hours and contact information.

What insurance coverage Is accepted?

We accept all patients. Our billing office will file the necessary paperwork with the insurance carriers so that payment is not required at the time of the procedure. Please be sure to obtain any necessary referrals if your insurance requires them.