Under the Bethesda system, a thyroid aspirate needs enough well-preserved follicular cells to be diagnostic; a non-diagnostic result usually means a repeat procedure and delay. Technique accounts for much of the difference between operators.
Established measures that improve yield include sampling the solid component of mixed nodules, using fine needles with a few short passes, and, where available, on-site assessment of adequacy before the patient leaves.
- Target the solid component of a mixed cystic-solid nodule.
- Use fine-gauge needles and short, multidirectional passes to limit blood contamination.
- Consider rapid on-site adequacy assessment where cytology support exists.
- Audit your own non-diagnostic rate and compare it with your department's.
Why it matters
Every non-diagnostic aspirate means a second procedure and weeks of uncertainty for the patient.
Read the rest in the app
You have read your two free briefings this month. The app carries all 27 specialties, every morning, free — and this finding is waiting in it.
Scan to keep reading on your phone. No account needed to start.
Tomorrow morning, before your first patient
One edition a day for radiology, written by the desk, every claim tied to its paper. Six minutes.
Get the app — free