Guided procedures
Ultrasound-guided biopsies, drainage and injections.
Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA)
With a very thin needle guided by ultrasound, cells are taken from a thyroid nodule, a lymph node or another lesion for analysis. Done under local anesthesia.
Core needle biopsy
A small cylinder of tissue is taken, for example from the breast or a mass, for a more complete diagnosis. Done under local anesthesia with ultrasound guidance.
Fluid collection aspiration
Fluid that has built up under the skin or inside the body, such as a seroma or abscess, is removed with a needle to relieve discomfort and for analysis.
Catheter drainage
When a collection is large or keeps refilling, a thin tube is left in place for a few days so it drains gradually.
Cyst sclerotherapy
A cyst is emptied and a substance is placed inside so its walls close and it is less likely to refill.
Image-guided injection or nerve block
Medication is placed precisely in a joint, tendon or next to a nerve, guided by ultrasound, to reduce pain.
Barbotage (calcific tendinitis lavage)
Washes out calcium deposits inside a tendon, mainly in the shoulder, that cause severe pain with movement.
Paracentesis
Removes fluid that has built up in the abdomen to relieve pressure and, if needed, analyze it.
Thoracentesis
Removes fluid built up around the lung, which makes breathing hard, to relieve symptoms and analyze it.