Procedures
Ultrasound-Guided Interventions
What Are Ultrasound-Guided Interventions?
Ultrasound-guided interventions are minimally invasive procedures performed using real-time ultrasound imaging to guide the accurate placement of needles or instruments. These procedures are widely used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, offering precision, safety, and comfort.
Ultrasound-Guided FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology)
What is Ultrasound-Guided FNAC?
Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to obtain cells from a suspicious lump or mass in the body. Using real-time ultrasound imaging, a fine needle is guided accurately into the target area to collect tissue or fluid samples for cytological analysis. This technique enhances the precision of FNAC, making it safer and more effective—especially for deep or non-palpable lesions.
Why Use Ultrasound Guidance?
- Visualize the target area in real-time
- Avoid nearby blood vessels and vital structures
- Increase diagnostic accuracy
- Minimize patient discomfort and complications
Common Areas for USG-Guided FNAC:
Thyroid nodules
Lymph nodes (neck, axilla, groin)
Breast lumps
Salivary glands
Soft tissue masses
How is the Procedure Done?
Preparation & Ultrasound Imaging
The skin over the area is cleaned under sterile precautions, and the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to accurately locate the lesion.
Aspiration
A fine needle is inserted through the skin under ultrasound guidance to collect cell samples.
Post-procedure
A small bandage is applied. The entire procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes.
Lab Analysis
The sample is sent to the lab for cytological examination by a pathologist.
Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided FNAC
- Minimally invasive
- Accurate and reliable
- Quick recovery
- No need for general anesthesia
- Performed on an outpatient basis
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is It Painful?
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Who Performs the Procedure?
Ultrasound-guided FNAC is typically performed by an experienced radiologist or interventional specialist trained in ultrasound-guided techniques.
When Are Results Available?
In most cases, cytology results are available within 2–3 working days.
Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy
What is an Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy?
An ultrasound-guided biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to obtain a tissue sample from a suspicious mass or abnormal area inside the body. Using real-time ultrasound imaging, the doctor guides a special biopsy needle precisely to the target location, ensuring accuracy and safety. The collected sample is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist to diagnose conditions such as infections, inflammation, or cancer.
Why is Ultrasound Guidance Used?
- Precise targeting of small or deep lesions
- Real-time visualization of surrounding structures
- Reduced risk of complications
- Improved diagnostic accuracy
- No exposure to radiation
Common Areas for USG-Guided Biopsy
Breast lumps
Thyroid nodules
Lymph nodes
Liver or kidney masses
Soft tissue masses
How is the Procedure Performed?
Preparation
The area is cleaned and sterilized. Local anesthesia is given to numb the site.
Imaging
An ultrasound probe is used to locate the lesion.
Biopsy
A biopsy needle is inserted under ultrasound guidance to obtain the tissue sample.
Completion
Pressure is applied, and a small dressing is placed. The procedure usually takes 20–40 minutes.
Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy
- Minimally invasive – no major surgery required
- Quick recovery – usually back to normal activities within a day
- Outpatient procedure – no hospital stay needed
- Cost-effective – compared to surgical biopsies
- Highly accurate – especially for palpable and deep lesions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Happens After the Procedure?
- • You may experience mild soreness at the biopsy site.
• Most patients can return to normal activities within 24 hours.
• Results are typically available within 3–5 days.
Is the Procedure Safe?
Yes. Ultrasound-guided biopsies are considered very safe with a low risk of complications such as bleeding or infection. All procedures are performed by skilled radiologists or interventional specialists under sterile conditions
Ultrasound-Guided Aspirations
What is What is an Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration?
Ultrasound-guided aspiration is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove fluid or pus from a specific area of the body using a fine needle, with real-time guidance from ultrasound imaging. This allows for precise targeting of fluid collections while avoiding nearby structures like blood vessels or organs. It is commonly performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Why is Ultrasound Guidance Important?
- Accurately locate the fluid collection
- Minimize risk of injury to surrounding tissues
- Increase the success rate of the procedure
- Avoid exposure to ionizing radiation
Common Conditions Treated with USG-Guided Aspiration:
Joint effusions (fluid in knees, shoulders, etc.)
Abscesses (in soft tissues, abdomen, or pelvis)
Cysts (breast cysts, liver cysts, renal cysts)
Seromas or hematomas
Pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs) – in select cases
Ascites (abdominal fluid)
How is the Procedure Performed?
Preparation
The skin over the area is cleaned, and local anesthesia is applied.
Imaging
An ultrasound probe is used to precisely locate the fluid collection.
Aspiration
A sterile needle is guided into the collection and the fluid is drawn out.
Aftercare
A small dressing is applied; patients are usually monitored briefly before going home.
Purpose of the Aspiration
- Diagnostic: The fluid may be sent to the lab for analysis to check for infection, cancer, or other conditions.
- Therapeutic: Removing the fluid can relieve pain, pressure, or discomfort.
Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration
- Minimally invasive – no surgery required
- Safe and quick – typically completed in 20–30 minutes
- Highly accurate – reduces risk of complications
- Outpatient procedure – go home the same day
- Cost-effective – compared to surgical drainage
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is It Painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and the procedure is generally well tolerated.
Who Performs the Procedure?
The procedure is carried out by a trained radiologist or interventional specialist experienced in ultrasound-guided techniques.
After the Procedure
- Mild soreness or bruising at the site is normal
- Patients can typically return to daily activities the same or next day
- Lab results (if fluid is analyzed) are usually available in 2–3 days