Name of the Procedure:

Aspiration and/or Injection, Thyroid Cyst

Summary

The aspiration and/or injection of a thyroid cyst is a procedure that involves using a needle to remove fluid from a cyst located on the thyroid gland. This may also involve injecting medication to shrink or treat the cyst.

Purpose

This procedure addresses thyroid cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that can form on the thyroid gland. The goal is to relieve symptoms such as pain or discomfort, reduce the size of the cyst, and obtain fluid for diagnostic testing.

Indications

• Presence of a thyroid cyst causing pain, discomfort, or pressure symptoms
• Rapid growth or large size of the cyst
• Cosmetic concerns due to a noticeable lump
• Diagnostic clarity to determine if the fluid is benign or malignant

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
• Blood tests or ultrasound imaging might be required prior to the procedure.
• Patients should inform their doctor of any medications they are taking, especially blood thinners or anticoagulants.

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies in a comfortable position, usually with the neck extended.
2. The area over the thyroid is cleaned and sterilized.
3. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
4. Ultrasound guidance is used to precisely locate the cyst.
5. A fine needle is inserted into the cyst, and fluid is aspirated (withdrawn).
6. If necessary, a sclerosing agent or other medication is injected into the cyst to prevent recurrence.
7. The needle is removed, and the area is cleaned and dressed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is generally performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital.

Personnel

• Endocrinologist or radiologist
• Nurse or medical assistant
• Ultrasound technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the needle site
• Minor bleeding or bruising
• Pain or discomfort during or after the procedure
• Rarely, injury to surrounding structures in the neck
• Rarely, recurrent cyst formation

Benefits

• Alleviation of symptoms such as pain and pressure
• Reduction in cyst size
• Diagnostic information from the aspirated fluid
• Minimally invasive with a quick recovery time

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home shortly after the procedure.
• Mild pain or bruising at the site is possible and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Normal activities can generally be resumed the next day.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the cyst or address any recurrent issues.

Alternatives

• Watchful waiting with regular monitoring, especially if the cyst is asymptomatic.
• Surgical removal of the cyst in more severe or persistent cases.
• Pros: Surgery offers a definitive solution but involves more risk and longer recovery.
• Cons: Watchful waiting may prolong symptoms and uncertainties.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a pinprick sensation with the needle insertion.
• Some pressure or minor discomfort may be experienced during fluid aspiration.
• Post-procedure soreness is common but typically mild and short-lived.
• The healthcare team will provide comfort measures and pain management as needed.

Overall, aspiration and/or injection of a thyroid cyst is a safe and effective procedure to diagnose and treat symptomatic or problematic cysts on the thyroid gland.