Ultrasound Guided FNA & Biopsy

FNA is an acronym for Fine Needle Aspiration and involves using the guidance of Ultrasound to insert a very thin needle into an affected area and removing a sample of cells for pathology testing. Local anaesthetic may be administered to the area prior to the sample being removed.

This procedure takes approximately 30 minutes and is performed by a Sonographer and Radiologist.

The sample is labelled and sent to our local pathology lab. Your GP will receive results from the pathologist within 7-10 days.

FNA is considered a safe procedure, however with any injection there can be some risks involved. These are rare, but include:

  • Bruising or swelling at the injection site

  • Localized infection at the injection site

  • Temporary discomfort

  • Allergic reaction to medication

Contact your GP immediately if you experience any of the following:

  • Fever, chills or generally unwell in the days following the injection

  • Redness, pain or swelling at the injection site

  • A significant increase of pain in the area following the injection