Thyroid Biopsy

Biopsy, Thyroid

How It Feels

Needle biopsy

You may find it uncomfortable to lie still with your head tipped backward.

During a needle biopsy, you may feel a quick sting or pinch in your neck.

The biopsy site may be sore and tender for 1 to 2 days. You can take nonprescription pain medicine, such as acetaminophen for the discomfort.

Open biopsy

You will be asleep and feel nothing during the biopsy. After the biopsy, you may have some nausea, general muscle aches, and may feel tired for 1 to 2 days. You also may have a sore throat and sound hoarse. Suck on throat lozenges or gargle with warm salt water to help your sore throat.

The biopsy site may be sore and tender for 3 to 4 days. Your doctor will give you pain medicine for this.

After a thyroid biopsy, you may be more comfortable if you keep your head up on a pillow when you lie down. Support the back of your head and neck with both hands when you sit up to prevent discomfort at the biopsy site.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: September 15, 2006
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology & Metabolism
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