Need 2nd FNA

[JLT9376]

My first ultra sound FNA was a done by a Radiologist.  I felt the 1st stick of lidocaine.  I didn't feel the other needle sticks, but felt lots of pressure.  The Radiologist seemed to have lots of problems getting the needle into the nodule even though it was ultra sound guided.  He poked around in me for about 25 minutes before getting a sample.  I was scared to death and could feel the needle inside my throat every time I swallowed.  Two days later, I was told the sample was not adequate.  I was furious.  

I am now seeing an endocrinologist who is highly recommended.  He says I need to repeat the biopy.  He doesn't use any lidocaine.  He says the lidocaine hurts worse than the stick to get the sample.  He believes the Radiologist used a much bigger needle than he should have, which is why I had so much bruising and discomfort after the procedure.  

I am terrified to have to go through this procedure again.  Has anyone had a FNA without lidocaine?  Is it comparable to getting a shot at the dentist???

[4helen]

Yeah---had to have a 2nd FNA done because of inadequate sample.  No lidocaine for either....easier than dentist...little bee sting and over and done with.  

Both trips rewarded self with a thick frothy hot chocie...think of a decent reward treat for after....made saying no to the proferred Brave Bear Sticker easier...I had something much better in mind, thank you!! lol

Sounds like 1st guy bit of a bafoon; statistically I'd say it'll be much better (as it should be!!) 2nd time.  Good luck.  : )  

[Michelle_P]

I just had one on Monday and it was not bad at all. I had no lidocaine, and I barely felt the needle poke for the biopsy. It was done by a surgical oncologist, and the whole thing took about 10 minutes. He held the US in one hand, the needle in the other- and was done very quickly.

I am a dentist wimp ( seriously). I would take another FNA over the dentist anyday.

I'm so sorry you had a bad experinece. Hope your next one is easy for you!

Sending you lots of good energy,
Michelle

[ChitChatNine]

It is less painful than a root canal shot at the endodontist was my experience.  However, every FNA is different but most are not too bad .. some pressure and poking and finished.  Sorry your sample wasn't good .. but so important to have a clean sample so you can find out what's wrong.

What are your symtpoms?  Nodules?

C~
Partial Thyroidectomy 1/07