If you experience symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, such extreme fatigue or unexplained weight fluctuations, your doctor may recommend a thyroid ultrasound.
Ultrasound imaging methods allow for real-time identification of thyroid nodules as small as 2 mm. This can help your doctor determine whether the growth is malignant or benign, allowing them to create a treatment plan.
How Does a Thyroid Ultrasound Work?
An ultrasound (sonography) uses sound waves to produce images of the thyroid gland. It works on the same principle as sonar used by marine craft.
The high-frequency sound waves emitted by the transducer wand hit structures inside the throat, whether solid or fluid-filled, and bounce back at different rates. The receiver inside the transducer detects tiny changes in the sound wave’s pitch and direction, which are translated by the computer to create an image.
What to Expect During a Thyroid Ultrasound?
During the ultrasound, the doctor applies a lubricating jelly to your throat above the thyroid. This helps the sound waves penetrate the skin more easily for higher quality images.
Your doctor moves the wand back and forth over your neck and captures images on a bedside monitor. They may capture single frames or loops of video. The procedure typically takes around 30 minutes.
Receive Quality Care from Associated Endocrinologists
At Associated Endocrinologists, our qualified team of doctors are highly experienced at performing ultrasounds and analyzing the results. If you need a neck ultrasound, contact Associated Endocrinologists at (248)-487-8335 to schedule an appointment.