Our ENT specialists are skilled in ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsies, delivering accurate results with little discomfort and no downtime. By utilizing advanced techniques, we ensure a safe and efficient procedure, giving you the answers you need quickly.
When you discover a lump or swollen node, it’s natural to feel concerned. A fine needle biopsy (FNB) is a safe, minimally invasive way to determine the cause, whether it’s benign, cancerous, or inflammatory. At SoCal ENT, we specialize in ultrasound-guided FNB to ensure high accuracy and patient comfort.
Our board-certified ENT specialists use the latest techniques to evaluate thyroid nodules, enlarged lymph nodes, salivary gland growths, and other neck or soft tissue abnormalities. Most procedures take under 30 minutes, and patients return to normal activities the same day.
With your biopsy results in hand, our dedicated and compassionate ENT team will work to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. We work alongside you at every step, ensuring a comfortable, well-informed process designed to enhance your health and quality of life.
A fine needle biopsy, also known as fine needle aspiration (FNA), is a diagnostic procedure where a thin, hollow needle is used to extract a small sample of cells or fluid from a lump or nodule. The sample is sent to a lab for evaluation under a microscope.
This test is commonly used to investigate thyroid abnormalities, lymph node swelling, and salivary gland growths. Unlike traditional surgical biopsies, FNB requires no incisions or stitches, offering a faster and less invasive diagnostic path.
Your biopsy will be performed right in our office, using a step-by-step process designed to keep you relaxed and informed:
The entire visit typically takes less than 30 minutes, with very little discomfort reported by most patients.
Fine needle biopsy is an essential diagnostic tool used to evaluate:
Early diagnosis through FNB helps guide timely treatment and provides peace of mind.
Fine needle biopsy may be used to evaluate accessible lumps or abnormalities in the:
With ultrasound guidance, even deeper or smaller areas can be targeted accurately and safely.
Fine needle biopsy is a simple test can offer big answers, helping you move forward with confidence.
Your provider may recommend a fine needle biopsy if:
Before your biopsy, our ENT specialists will thoroughly review your medical history, imaging, and medications. Special precautions may be taken for patients on blood thinners or those with clotting disorders.
Recovery after a fine needle biopsy is typically fast and straightforward. Because the procedure is non-surgical and minimally invasive, most patients are able to return to their normal daily activities immediately following their appointment.
Some may experience mild tenderness, slight bruising, or localized swelling at the biopsy site, but these symptoms are temporary and usually resolve within 24 to 48 hours. In some cases, your ENT provider may recommend avoiding strenuous physical activity for the rest of the day to ensure optimal healing. Our team at SoCal ENT will give you clear, personalized instructions after the procedure to make sure your recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Most patients receive their biopsy results within a few days, depending on the complexity of the lab analysis. Results typically confirm whether a lump is benign, malignant, or indeterminate.
Benign findings usually require no further treatment, while malignant results may lead to additional testing, surgical treatment, or a referral for specialized care. If the results are inconclusive, a repeat biopsy or further evaluation may be recommended. Your SoCal ENT specialist will walk you through the findings and outline the next steps based on your individual needs.
Most patients feel little or no pain. A local anesthetic is often used to reduce discomfort.
The entire visit, including prep, usually takes under 30 minutes.
No. Fine needle biopsy uses a very thin needle and typically leaves no visible scar.
Complications are rare. You might experience slight bruising, swelling, or tenderness at the site.
Most results are available within 2–5 business days, depending on the lab and its complexity.
Yes—no special preparation is required unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Your provider will guide you through the next steps, whether that includes further testing or targeted treatment planning.
