- Strengths
- Pathologist present during biopsy to improve diagnostic rate - very low complication rate. On site radiology nurse support.
- Limitations
- General criteria for biopsy: Solid nodules >=1.5cm (>1cm if suspicious features such as microcalcifications or interval growth; Solid and cystic nodules >=2cm (>1.5cm if suspicious features present or significant interval growth).
- Contraindications
- Coagulopathy. Some anticoagulants must be held for procedure: coumadin held until INR<=2; lovenox held 1 dose or 12 hours prior to procedure; plavix and full dose aspirin prefer to hold 3-5 days.
- CPT Code
- 76942 (ultrasound guidance); 10022 (fine needle aspiration)
- Exact format for order to be authorized
- US thyroid biopsy
- Patient Preparation
- None.
