FNA on 2 nodules - what to expect? Any warnings?

MaryVig

i am currently in chemo for ovarian cancer. During my first CT the scan discovered 4 nodules on the thyroid. A subsequent ultrasound confirmed that 2 of the 4 nodules warrant FNA. I understand it is done in working with an ultrasound. Can someone tell me what to expect? Do you feel the needles? Do they hold down your head? Is it painful? I am a wuss for medical procedures, so knowing what to expect will potentially reduce my stress. Thanks for as much personal experience you are willing to share. Thanks.

MaryVig

Anyone help answer?

I have had to postpone the FNA as my blood count dropped from my ovarian cancer treatment. I am stressing over the FNA so would really appreciate someone telling me about the FNA.

Suzy_NY

Hi Mary! I had an FNA done

Hi Mary! I had an FNA done last week. I was also very nervous, but it actually wasn't that bad.

First, they had me change into a medical gown (I wore a tank underneath - they basicaly want your neck & clavical area to be clear). Then, they sprayed something onto my neck from an aerosol can - it felt almost like a topical numbing spray. Then, they injected local anesthetic. The anesthetic was the worst part. The needle pinched only a little, but the medicine did burn a bit for a few seconds. Then, the doctor used an ultrasound wand to locate the nodule, and guided a needle to the nodule. After inserting the needle, he moved it slightly to locate the nodule and get the needle into the right spot. I did not feel any pain from this, although there was a fair bit of pressure and an odd feeling while the needle was moving around. 

 

Afterwards, I was a little sore - especially the first night. It was nothing that a tylenol didn't take care of. I also developed some slight bruising, but nothing too major.

 

I hope this helps reduce some of your stress about the procedure! I'm sorry for what you're going through - cancer sucks. Hoping things turn out well for you

MaryVig

Thank you

thsnk you so much for the thorough description. It really does help me visualize and thus reduce my stress. Thank you for posting!