Pathology Specialties
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Studies
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Studies – Fine Needle Aspiration procedures and diagnoses are done by our Cytopathologists. This procedure allows a pathologist to examine cells and cystic contents from a lump or bump that can be felt underneath the surface of the skin and help diagnose suspicious masses. FNA is frequently used and entails placing a very thin needle inside the mass and extracting cells for microscopic evaluation. The procedure itself takes only seconds and the discomfort is comparable to a blood test, leaving a mark no bigger than a needle stick from a blood test. . In order to make FNA reliable, it is important that the sampling as well as the interpretation of the specimens are done by specially trained physicians who perform the procedure frequently. Patients can be scheduled at our outpatient facility without any delay and the procedure will be be performed by one of our Cytopathologists. Furthermore, the evaluation of the this test will most often allow us to make a diagnosis of the specimen within 2 to 3 days of the test.
Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy, when carried out by an experienced physician has minimal complications. The most common complication is a slight bruising or tenderness of the area for a few days following the procedure. Discomfort should be relieved by an over-the-counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or the application of an ice-pack for short periods following your return home.
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