Name of the Procedure:

Ultrasonic Guidance for Needle Placement (e.g., biopsy, aspiration, injection, localization device)

• Common Names: Ultrasound-Guided Needle Placement, Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy

Summary

Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement involves using ultrasound imaging to accurately position a needle within the body for various purposes such as taking tissue samples (biopsy), draining fluids (aspiration), administering medications (injection), or placing localization devices. This technique enhances precision and safety.

Purpose

Medical Condition or Problem

The procedure is used for:

• Diagnosing abnormalities such as tumors or infections.
• Treating fluid collections (e.g., abscesses).
• Administering precise injections.
• Placing localization devices for surgical planning.

Goals or Expected Outcomes

• Accurate needle placement with minimal discomfort.
• Reduced risk of complications.
• Effective diagnosis or treatment of the target condition.

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions

• Suspicious lumps or masses.
• Fluid build-up needing drainage.
• Need for precise medication delivery.
• Requirement for tissue samples for diagnostic purposes.

Patient Criteria

• Patients with palpable or non-palpable abnormalities detected via imaging.
• Individuals requiring specific and targeted tissue or fluid extraction.
• Patients needing localized therapy delivery under guidance.

Preparation

• Follow fasting instructions if sedation is used.
• Adjust or suspend certain medications as advised by the doctor.
• Complete any required imaging or diagnostic tests prior to the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably. The skin over the target area is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Ultrasound Imaging: A cool gel is applied to the skin, and an ultrasound probe is moved over the area to visualize the internal structures.
3. Needle Placement: Under real-time ultrasound guidance, the healthcare provider inserts the needle through the skin and advances it to the target area.
4. Completion: Once the procedure is complete, the needle is withdrawn, and a bandage is applied to the insertion site.

Tools and Equipment

• Ultrasound machine with a transducer probe.
• Sterile needles, syringes, and collection containers.
• Local anesthesia (optional).

Duration

• The procedure typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

• Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Radiologist or specially trained physician.
• Ultrasound technician.
• Nursing staff for patient care and assistance.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks

• Minor discomfort or bruising at the needle site.
• Risk of infection.

Rare Risks

• Bleeding.
• Injury to surrounding organs or structures.
• Allergic reaction to local anesthesia.

Benefits

• High accuracy in needle placement.
• Minimally invasive with quick recovery.
• Provides critical diagnostic information or therapeutic benefit.

Recovery

• Minor soreness at the needle site.
• Follow-up instructions may include avoiding strenuous activities for 24-48 hours.
• Specific care instructions for the puncture site.
• Scheduling of follow-up appointments to discuss results or further treatment.

Alternatives

• Traditional Needle Placement: without imaging guidance, which might have lower precision.
• CT or MRI Guidance: for deeper or less accessible targets but may involve more radiation exposure or longer duration.

Patient Experience

During Procedure

• Brief sensation of pressure or minor discomfort during needle insertion.
• Cool sensation from the ultrasound gel.

After Procedure

• Mild soreness or discomfort, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
• Instructions on care for the needle site and activity restrictions.
• Monitoring for any signs of infection or complications.

Pain management and comfort measures will be provided throughout the procedure to ensure patient comfort.