Thyroid nodules are extremely common, and most are harmless. When your doctor feels a lump in your neck or sees something on another scan, the next step is almost always a thyroid ultrasound. Here is what a thyroid ultrasound in Miami shows, why it is ordered and how to prepare.
What Is a Thyroid Ultrasound?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck that controls metabolism. A thyroid ultrasound uses sound waves to create detailed images of the gland and nearby lymph nodes. It is quick, painless and uses no radiation, which makes it ideal for follow-up exams over time.
What a Thyroid Ultrasound Shows
- Thyroid nodules: their size, number, shape and internal features
- Goiter: an enlarged thyroid gland
- Cysts: fluid-filled nodules
- Inflammation (thyroiditis), such as Hashimoto’s
- Lymph nodes in the neck
- Blood flow within the gland, using Doppler
Radiologists often describe nodules using a standardized scoring system (such as TI-RADS) that helps your doctor decide whether a nodule needs monitoring, a biopsy or no further action.
Why Your Doctor May Order One
- A lump or swelling in the neck
- A nodule seen incidentally on a CT, MRI or carotid ultrasound
- Abnormal thyroid blood tests (TSH, T3, T4)
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of pressure in the neck
- A family history of thyroid disease or thyroid cancer
- Monitoring a known nodule for changes
How to Prepare
No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink and take your medications normally.
- Wear a shirt with an open or low neckline.
- Leave necklaces and neck jewelry at home.
- Bring your physician’s order, photo ID and any prior thyroid imaging reports for comparison.
What to Expect During the Exam
You lie on your back with a small pillow under your shoulders, tilting your head back slightly to extend the neck. The sonographer applies gel and moves the transducer across the front and sides of your neck. You may be asked to swallow once or twice. The exam usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Results
A board-certified radiologist interprets your images, and the report is sent to your ordering physician within 48 business hours. If a nodule needs further evaluation, your doctor will discuss the options with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a thyroid ultrasound hurt?
No. You will feel light pressure from the transducer and cool gel on your skin, but there is no pain.
Can a thyroid ultrasound detect cancer?
Ultrasound shows features that make a nodule more or less suspicious. A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis, and your doctor will decide if one is appropriate.
Do I need to fast for a thyroid ultrasound?
No. There is no fasting or preparation for a thyroid ultrasound.
Schedule a Thyroid Ultrasound in Miami
Book online or call 786-353-9160, Monday through Friday. See our full list of ultrasound services and exam preparation instructions.
