Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care for a health problem.
What is a thyroid biopsy? —
This is a procedure to check cells from the thyroid. The thyroid is a gland in the middle of the neck (figure 1). It makes thyroid hormone, which controls how the body uses and stores energy.
The most common type of thyroid biopsy is called a "fine-needle aspiration," or "FNA," biopsy. During an FNA, a doctor uses a thin needle to remove a small sample of cells from the thyroid nodule. Then, another doctor looks at the cells under a microscope. In some cases, the cells are sent for other tests.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Take care of the biopsy site:
•Keep the area dry and covered with a bandage for the first day. Your doctor or nurse will tell you exactly how long to keep it dry.
•Once you no longer need to keep the area dry, gently wash it with soap and water whenever you take a shower. Then, pat it dry.
•Always wash your hands before and after you touch the biopsy site or bandage.
●Take non-prescription medicines to relieve pain, if needed. Examples include acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).
●Ice can help with pain and swelling – Put a cold gel pack, bag of ice, or bag of frozen vegetables on the area every 1 to 2 hours, for 15 minutes each time. Put a thin towel between the ice (or other cold object) and your skin.
●Call your doctor or make an appointment to talk about your biopsy results. The results are usually available within a few days to a week after the biopsy.
When should I call the doctor? —
c — Call for advice if you have:
●A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills
●Redness or swelling around the biopsy site
●Bleeding or severe pain at the biopsy site
Patient education: Thyroid biopsy (The Basics)
Patient education: Thyroid nodules (The Basics)
Patient education: Nodular goiter (The Basics)
Patient education: Thyroid cancer (The Basics)
