Thyroid ultrasound

Ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to assess the structure of the thyroid gland, allowing evaluation of its size, shape, and possible abnormalities such as nodules or cysts. As a safe and painless method, a thyroid ultrasound is vital for diagnosing and monitoring thyroid conditions, benign and malignant tumors. In the "Dobrobut" medical network, ultrasounds are performed by experienced specialists using modern equipment.

When to See a Doctor

Patients should consult a doctor for a thyroid ultrasound if they experience any of the following symptoms:

Noticeable swelling or nodules in the neck area, which may indicate an enlarged thyroid gland.
Persistent pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the throat or neck that does not subside.
Hoarseness or changes in voice quality that persist or worsen over time.
Difficulty swallowing or breathing, feeling of a lump in the throat.
Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, including weight changes, fatigue, palpitations, or sensitivity to temperature.

Indications and Contraindications

A thyroid ultrasound is a key diagnostic tool used for assessing various conditions and provides detailed images of the gland's structure, helping to evaluate its size, shape, and any anomalies.

Here are some common indications for a thyroid ultrasound:

Detection of thyroid nodules: ultrasound is often used when thyroid nodules are found during a physical examination or suspected due to symptoms. It helps evaluate the size, composition (solid or cystic), and other characteristics of the nodule.
Evaluation of goiter: in cases of thyroid enlargement (goiter), ultrasound can determine its size and the presence of nodules or cysts.
Assessment of thyroid cancer: an ultrasound can help identify suspicious nodules that may require further investigation, such as a fine-needle aspiration biopsy, to rule out thyroid cancer.
Monitoring thyroid nodules: to assess any changes in size or appearance over time, which may indicate the need for further examination or intervention.
Evaluation of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism: while ultrasound does not directly measure thyroid function, it can help assess structural changes associated with diseases like Graves' disease or Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which cause thyroid dysfunction.
Postoperative surveillance: patients who have undergone thyroid surgery, particularly for cancer, may undergo ultrasound to monitor for recurrence or to assess residual thyroid tissue.
Congenital thyroid anomalies: it can help detect structural abnormalities of the thyroid, such as ectopic thyroid tissue, especially in children.
Thyroiditis: conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or subacute thyroiditis may require evaluation for inflammation or changes in gland size.

Ultrasound is also essential for guiding fine-needle aspiration biopsy of thyroid nodules to ensure accurate tissue sampling.

Contraindications for a thyroid ultrasound may include severe trauma or surgery in the neck area.

Diagnosis of the Need for the Procedure

To determine the need for a thyroid ultrasound, a doctor performs a neck palpation exam to assess the gland's size and texture and identify any nodules or asymmetry, orders blood tests for hormone levels such as TSH, T3, and T4, discusses symptoms, and reviews medical history.

How the Procedure is Conducted

A thyroid ultrasound typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. No special preparation is required for the ultrasound. Patients may be asked to remove any jewelry on the neck and clear the area of clothing.

During the procedure, the patient lies down, and a clear gel is applied to the neck. A transducer is moved over the thyroid area to obtain images. The ultrasound doctor analyzes the images to evaluate the size, shape, and any possible abnormalities of the thyroid gland.

The goal of ultrasound in the "Dobrobut" medical network is to provide precise diagnostics that aid in the effective management and treatment of thyroid conditions.

Appointments for the examination can be made through the form on the website or by calling the contact center.