Ultrasound-Guided FNA (Fine Needle Aspiration)
Highly precise cell sampling under real-time ultrasound guidance.
A comfortable, ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy to collect cell samples from thyroid nodules or lymph nodes for pathological testing.
Book your ultrasound-guided FNA biopsy below.
Precision Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration
An ultrasound-guided Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) biopsy is a highly precise diagnostic procedure used to collect small cell samples from nodules, cysts, or lymph nodes. Because the targets are often small (such as thyroid nodules or neck lymph nodes), using real-time ultrasound guidance is essential to ensure the needle is positioned safely and accurately.
At LifeScan Clinic in Naxxar, our consultant radiologists perform FNA biopsies under local anaesthetic. The collected cell samples are sent to accredited laboratories for cytological analysis, helping determine whether a nodule is benign or requires further care.
Nodule & Node Biopsy
Thyroid & Lymph Nodes
We perform precise FNA biopsies to investigate:
- Thyroid nodules (characterizing atypical or growing lumps)
- Enlarged neck lymph nodes or salivary gland nodules
- Fluid-filled cysts requiring cell testing or diagnostic drainage
Procedure & Safety
What to Expect
We prioritize patient safety and comfort:
- Real-time ultrasound monitors the needle path at every stage
- Targeted local anaesthesia to fully numb the skin surface
- Very thin needle used (similar to a blood test needle) to collect cells
Preparation & Blood Thinner Guidelines
- Blood Thinners: Please inform us if you are taking blood-thinning medications (such as Warfarin, Aspirin, or Apixaban), as you may need to pause them prior to the biopsy.
- Post-Care: You can return to normal activities quickly. Rest the neck area and avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
- Cytology Results: Cell samples are sent to pathology. Cytology reports typically take 7 to 10 days to complete.
Transparent, Dynamic Pricing
At LifeScan Malta, we believe in transparent pricing without surprises.
Because our booking fees are dynamic and subject to adjustments, the current up-to-date scan price is displayed directly in the booking widget below.
Prices are kept current in our digital calendar system so you never have to worry about outdated price lists on our pages.
Book Your Ultrasound-Guided FNA (Fine Needle Aspiration)
Select an appointment time below. Your appointment will be handled by our consultant specialists.
Why Choose LifeScan?
Experience board-certified expertise, same-day reporting, and state-of-the-art imaging.
Real-Time Ultrasound Guidance
Guiding the needle under live imaging ensures precise targeting, even in nodules smaller than a centimeter.
Consultant Radiologist Led
Every FNA is performed by consultant radiologists with specialized interventional training.
Comfortable Local Anaesthesia
We numb the skin surface, ensuring the biopsy is completed with minimal discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Ultrasound-Guided FNA (Fine Needle Aspiration).
Is the FNA biopsy painful?
Because the needle used is very thin, the procedure is generally comfortable. We apply a local anaesthetic to numb the skin, so you may only feel a brief prick and a sensation of pressure.
Why is a thyroid biopsy needed?
While over 90-95% of thyroid nodules are completely benign, an FNA biopsy is the most accurate non-surgical way to test the cells and confirm whether a nodule is benign or malignant.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
We accept referrals from GPs, endocrinologists, and surgeons. If you have a scan report showing a nodule that needs testing, our radiologist will consult with you.